Bee Instrumental Insemination Group

Dedicated to the memory of
John Patrick Arthur Pollard

1st March 1939
to
19th April 2005

Standing quietly watching the first attempts at instrumental insemination by a new practitioner was a typical memory of John. Always noting everything he saw on his clip board and ready, when asked, to give advice based on his vast knowledge, his notes would be invaluable in developing procedures and new equipment.

John Pollard, always known as John or 'big John' made full use of his working experience; his five year apprenticeship, qualified work study practitioner and even his National Service in the RAF. His beekeeping using Smith hives was the basis for his great interest in controlled breeding for stock improvement using instrumental insemination as a tool. As a result he accumulated a vast pool of knowledge and as part of his research was in touch with many leading scientists. This resulted in the invention of the Jordan/Pollard instrumental insemination equipment which brought the procedures within the financial reach of many. When he died he was developing techniques applicable to the Third World.

John's travels in Europe led to his devotion to lifting the quality levels of bee stocks and husbandry in England. On his death he was the Chairman of Kent Beekeepers, Chairman of the KBKA Educational Group, Chairman of BIIG and a familiar figure at the BBKA's Spring Convention. John was the instigator and founder Chairman of BIIG and worked hard to develop its aims. He was a strong advocate of the aims of the Bee Improvement and Bee Breeders Association, (BIBBA).

John was a private man but those privileged few who knew him well appreciated his friendship. His participation in the Kent and Devon Bee Tours will be remembered by many. He Enjoyed enormously his annual trip to the FIBKA's Course in Gormanston, Ireland. Despite the heat he had pleasant memories of Apimondia in Slovenia and was looking forward very much to this year's event in Dublin. His invitation to help Sue Cobey at Ohio State University reflected his high standing.

He had other interests such as local history, aircraft and was always concerned for the happiness and welfare of others. On at least two occasions he went to enormous lengths to obtain suitable chairs for friends who had back problems. Not for nothing was he referred to as the 'gentle giant' and his patience was legendary when faced with ignorance and misunderstanding.

But above all John will be remembered for spending so much of his energies in promoting modern techniques and practices in English Beekeeping. He leaves no family but will be remembered by beekeepers everywhere as a friend , mentor and expert.

Terry Clare