The New Forest & District Beekeepers Association was created in February 1917, details of which are below and can be found recorded in the British Bee Journal and Bee Keepers Advisor, March edition – page 87
In the same month, the NF&DBKA applied for and was granted permission to join the BBKA.
NF&DBKA were quick off the mark and in August of 1917 the same publication reported on their first honey show – with all honey sold on the first day!
NF&DBKA is associated with Hampshire BKA. The Hampshire Beekeepers Association (HBA) was established in 1883, along with the Isle of Wight Beekeepers Association (IWBKA). Initially, they were a joint association, known as H&IWBKA. Later, the Isle of Wight became a separate association. HBA is one of the largest associations in the country and has been operating for 141 years. You can see more about the history of HBA here. HBA represents its fourteen local associations in Hampshire to the BBKA.
The HBA has been organizing an annual county honey show for many years. This event allows beekeepers to compete at a higher level than the local association honey shows, which not all of them participate in. It also serves as a stepping stone for those who want to enter the National Honey Show. The HBA honey show, held at a central location, is a chance to educate the public about bees and beekeeping. Details about the event can be found on the Hampshire BKA website under events.