Hi everyone I have been reading 'A Manual of Beekeeping' by E B Wedmore and I came across the following paragraph on which I would value some comments as I am a newbee. 'The beginner likes to use gloves but should be discouraged to abandon their use as the bare fingers are so much more sensitive and are as acceptable to the bees. A nervous beginner can obtain help by applying a small quantity of extra strong methyl salicylate ointment rubbed all over the hands and especially on the exposed parts around the left thumb and first finger. The bees may be seen to pitch with intent to attack and then change their attitude. The use of the ointment has the additional advantage that it hinders propolis from adhering to the fingers.' Thanks for your input Tom Barrett 49 South Park Foxrock Dublin 18 Ireland e mail [log in to unmask] Tel + 353 1 289 6269 Fax + 353 1 289 9940