What started as a casual conversation about bees has grown into a thriving initiative at RAF Boulmer, with personnel embracing an unusual but rewarding hobby: beekeeping. The hard work of 2025 really paid off as it resulted in an Air Officer Commanding 2 Group Commendation. This is their story:
In early 2025, a few members of 144 Signals Unit began discussing plans to revive a neglected hive near the Station’s conservation area. Initially met with scepticism, the idea quickly gained traction. Fast forward a year, and RAF Boulmer now boasts an official Beekeeping Team, led by OIC Beekeeping, Sergeant Barnes, supported by a dedicated team of beekeepers.
The team’s journey began with training sessions at Morpeth Apiary, where members learned everything from bee anatomy to hive management and honey extraction. By late April, the team conducted their first hive inspection, an experience described as 'truly wonderfu' thanks to the hum of 50,000 bees. Weekly checks soon became routine, and by summer, the team harvested its first batch of honey, an impressive 12kg, donated to personnel across the Station. However, the year wasn’t without challenges. Despite expanding to four hives, invasive wasps wreaked havoc, destroying three colonies by autumn.
‘It was tough to see the losses, but it’s part of the learning curve’.
Sergeant Barnes
OIC Beekeeping
Plans for 2026 include rebuilding hive numbers, installing protective measures, and continuing honey production.
Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative has boosted morale and mental wellbeing. Personnel and local schoolchildren have enjoyed hands-on experiences, learning about pollination and sustainability.
Looking ahead, RAF Boulmer aims to expand its hives, purchase a dedicated shelter, and host more educational visits.
‘All in all, the members of the Boulmer Beekeeping Club have put in a lot of their time, many of which fell outside work hours, to maintain the hives. It is not a one-person hobby, and every individual has my personal gratitude for their efforts.’
Sergeant Barnes
OIC Beekeeping
