News from the BBKA

The BBKA was sorry to receive the news of the loss of one of its honorary life members. Betty Showler’s contribution to the BBKA Spring Convention over many years was enormous. Betty was in charge of ticket sales, always there to greet the beekeepers with that infectious smile.

Betty met Karl, her husband, at the East Malling research station in Kent. This was to be the start of a life partnership in horticulture and beekeeping. Betty gave her generous support during Karl’s period of office as Chair and President of the British Beekeepers’ Association. Betty was elected President and committee member of the Herefordshire Beekeepers’ Association. Following their move to Hay-on-Wye, both Betty and Karl were stalwart members of the Welsh Beekeepers’ Association and the local Brecknock and Radnor Beekeepers’ Association. Betty’s voluntary service to beekeeping was also recognised with honorary membership of the International Bee Research Association (IBRA). In 1985 Betty and Karl established a book selling business specialising in books about bees and beekeeping. She was fully involved in this new venture and was a regular sales lady on the B & K Stall at all major beekeeping events. Her warm greeting and happy disposition was always there to welcome you.

Betty’s many other interests included involvement in the WI, both at local, county and national executive level. Betty had remarkable skills in creative arts and was in great demand as a teacher of fine sewing. Her interest and involvement in her community and the national culture of Wales was evident in her lasting interest in The National Eisteddfod of Wales. Betty was a devoted member of the Society of Friends. A large congregation travelled far and wide to attend Betty’s funeral to pay their last respects to a truly gracious lady.