Dafydd Pett, 22, launched The Welsh Honey Company as a teenager after inheriting his grandfather’s hives. What began as a handful of colonies in the back garden has grown into a thriving national brand, supplying honey to farm shops, butchers and delis across Wales and the UK.
The BBC Countryfile award, part of the broadcaster’s annual Food and Farming Awards, celebrates young people making a difference in rural life. Dafydd was chosen from thousands of nominees across the UK.
From back garden hives to national recognition
Dafydd’s journey into beekeeping began at the age of 11, when his grandfather, Mike Pett, introduced him to the craft. After Mike’s death in 2017, Dafydd inherited 30 hives and decided to continue the family tradition.
“I realised early on that bees are far more than just producers of honey,” he said. “They are integral to pollination, vital to biodiversity, and essential to the survival of many plant species. Beekeeping wasn’t just a hobby for me — it was a responsibility.”
By 17, Dafydd had formally launched The Welsh Honey Company, balancing his growing business with GCSEs and A‑levels. He also represented Wales at the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers in Slovakia in 2019, and now serves as a trustee and youth representative for the Bridgend Beekeepers Association.
Awards and advocacy
The Welsh Honey Company has won multiple accolades, including Welsh Honey Enterprise of the Year in 2023 and 2024, and several Great Taste Awards. Dafydd has also built a following through YouTube tutorials and school visits, encouraging more young people to take up beekeeping in an industry where the average age is 65.
“Breaking into the honey industry is extremely difficult as the big businesses have dominated for decades,” he explained. “But I knew I had to think outside the box, use my youth to my advantage, and show people that Welsh honey can compete on quality and sustainability.”
Looking ahead
Now marking his 11th year as a beekeeper, Dafydd says he is focused on expanding sustainably while staying true to his roots.
“We’ve always been committed to working with nature, not against it,” he said. “The future of Welsh honey is bright, and we’re just getting started.”
The winner of the BBC Countryfile Young Countryside Champion Award 2025 will be announced later this year.
