Wow! So much helpful advice that you can’t get from a book, thank you! Gives me lots to think about.
Whatever I decide to buy, I’ve already decided my frames would all be brand new. I am more than happy to spend time constructing the whole hive so just the frames shouldn’t be too much trouble. I also like the idea of a dedicated area (perhaps my own shed.... how exciting) although my partner might not agree!) I have a nuc on order which as you said will come with 5 or 6 frames (I can’t remember). The polys sound interesting but part of me likes the idea of traditional wood. Just wondering why so many beekeepers stick to wood rather than the cheaper but more insulting poly? Perhaps just tradition. If I go for wood it’ll be British Cedar at the very least. I’m gonna stick to the main retailers, no eBay (unless it’s the retailers selling via there), a full all-in-one suit and thanks for the info on the gloves; hadn’t considered that.
With regards to the bee escapes, are you talking about clearing the supers during honey harvest? If so, why do some people not agree with this and what is the alternative? (Again, something the books don’t tell you) Thanks Patrick, I won’t be buying too much stuff to start with. Hive, all in one, hive tool, gloves and smoker, that was my plan. It’s already gonna cost a significant amount. Next you’ll be telling me I have to have a second hive ready on standby
! Thank you so much. Learnt so much from you already and I’ve not even started! Neil.