Had a phonecall Friday from a lady who had discussed beekeeping with me on phone in past but never had any bees. She had just bought all the equipment and bees from a keeper giving up, the hives had been moved , but promised help had not materialised. Could I help?
Spent 3 hours + Saturday pm weighing 3 hives, assessing what needed to be done, finding equipment from under tarpaulins/hidden in shed , feeding two very urgently, adding varroa boards (when found!), treating with Apiguard - very late so may not be effective , showing her how to mix syrup easily and how to light smoker etc..
One hive strong, two very light. Insulated dummy boards to be made, roofs insulated (husband), and combs reorganised next week. (It rained on and off during the work - we both got rather wet and with weak hives exposure to elements had to be minimised. )
Fortunately she'll be a quick learner and husband is competent DIYer.. My throat was sore by end of the afternoon too much talking answering questions.