Thousands of bees are creating distinctly local honey in Altrincham and Timperley as part of an expanding initiative that has brought hives to six locations across Trafford.
Local residents can now taste honey specifically made in their neighbourhoods, with hives located at United Utilities in Altrincham and Chris Walker Plants in Timperley forming part of the Manchester Honey Company's growing network.
The company has worked with Trafford Council, Amey and partners to establish the apiaries in secluded parkland areas, each containing up to 80,000 bees busily producing hyperlocal honey for the community.
The eight-year-old scheme has grown to 200 hives making award-winning honey for sale online, with each location producing honey with its own unique flavour profile based on local flowers and plants.
Leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Tom Ross, recently visited the bees' newest home at Lostock Park in Trafford Park for a tour and tasting with beekeeper Gareth Trehearn and his wife Louise.
The success in Altrincham and Timperley is part of the wider Greening Trafford initiative to support biodiversity, improve local spaces and make parks more welcoming. The One Trafford Partnership has installed platforms and fencing for the hives as part of this programme.
Long-time bee enthusiast Gareth, who runs a cleaning business with Louise, began expanding hives across Trafford during the pandemic. In addition to the Altrincham and Timperley locations, there are now apiaries at Suez in Trafford Park, Turn Moss at Stretford and allotments in Urmston.
Gareth said: "Our hives draw attention from parkgoers – dog walkers, families, and skateboarders alike – who are curious about the role of bees in the environment. People love it that our hyperlocal honey starts with the nectar from the flowers in their gardens.
"Those who buy a jar online, or from a stall at an event, are amazed that Stretford honey tastes completely different to Urmston honey. If you go to the supermarket, a jar of honey will taste the same whether you are in Edinburgh or London."
The honey particularly benefits from the diverse flora in these areas, creating unique flavours that reflect the local gardens and parkland.
Cllr Ross said: "We are delighted to be able to support this fabulous project, which supports our Council priority of addressing climate change. We look forward to working together with the Manchester Honey Company as its network continues to expand."
Gareth and his team also make beeswax candles, soap and lip balm, and regularly support local schools at their fairs.
