Hull's 'Bee Lady' has died at the age of 99
Jean Bishop was well known in the area for her many fundraising efforts
Last updated 8th Oct 2021
The Bee Lady of Hull has died at the age of 99. Jean Bishop was well known across the City for her many fundraising efforts.
Over the past 25 years, Jean has collected well over £100,000 for Age UK Hull dressed in her bee costume.
Back in 2017 Hull's 'Bee Lady' was told she'd been recognised in the Queen's New Years Honours.
She was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her prolific fundraising and spoke to us:
She also received a pride of Britain award for being Fundraiser of the Year.
Many people have been paying tribute - with Councillors and staff at Hull City Council saying they are deeply saddened to hear the news. The Council says:
"A true legend in the city, Jean’s lifetime of achievements run far and wide, including raising more than £124,000 for Age UK over 30 years, carrying the Olympic flame through Hull in 2012, receiving a Pride of Britain Award in 2013 and being awarded the Freedom of the City and British Empire Medal in 2017. The city also recognised Jean’s efforts through conferment of the Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull and Admiral of the Humber Award, which provided Jean with the courtesy title of Honorary Burgess"
Councillor Lynn Petrini, Lord Mayor of Hull said:
“We are truly saddened by Jean’s death. Jean and her incredible contributions to this city have inspired many generations of our residents and she will be greatly missed by the people of Hull. Our sympathies are with Jean’s friends and family at this sad time.”
Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of Hull City Council, said:
“Jean was a force to be reckoned with and an inspiration to us all. I extend our deepest sympathies to Jean’s family and friends and to everyone she touched at this very difficult time.
“Her years of campaigning for Age UK and famous Bee Lady costume are ingrained in Hull and will live on forever.”