A Norfolk beekeeper being honoured for his service to hives and honey is preparing to hang up his smock and mits after appearing on the King's Birthday Honour's List.
Paul Metcalf has kept honey bees for most of his adult life, starting his journey in the 1950s, and has since risen to be one of the most respected apiarists in the country.
He is the current president of the Norfolk Beekeepers' Association and has judged honey competitions at the royal estate in Sandringham where he met King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, on a number of occasions.
Paul Metcalf started his beekeeping journey in the 1950s (Image: Newsquest)
And for his long and dedicated service to beekeeping, he is being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
"I definitely didn't expect to be put forward for this honour," he said. "I've just enjoyed what I do for the last 60 years."
The 82-year-old, who lives in Barnham Broom, added that beekeeping has changed a great deal since he started, with scientific knowledge and methods making big changes to what was previously a craft skill.
Paul Metcalf will receive an MBE for his services to beekeeping (Image: Newsquest)
Mr Metcalf's current hives source most of their nectar and pollen from oilseed rape in surrounding fields which he says produces a very "middle of the road" honey.
"It's the most 'honey' honey you can think of," he said. "Very yellow and mellow."
Paul Metcalf judging honeys at Sandringham (Image: Paul Metcalf)
Mr Metcalf is still waiting to learn when he will collect his gong, but added is looking forward to seeing the King again.
He joked: "I've met him a handful of times already but he probably won't remember me."
But even as an MBE, Mr Metcalf said this is likely his final year of beekeeping, finding the physical strain too much.
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