When BBC’s 'Inside the Factory' came to Gilboys
In a captivating episode of BBC's "Inside the Factory" viewers will be treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Gilboys, following an unexpected yet thrilling invitation from Voltage TV to feature our meticulous polish crafting process.
As winter approached in late November 2021, Simon received an inquiry that would soon spotlight our artisanal processes on national television. The proposal from Voltage TV ignited a flurry of excitement, leading to the swift arrival of presenter Cherry Healey and the BBC film crew at the picturesque Buckfast Abbey.
The narrative unfolds in the enchanting environs of Buckfast Abbey because it is a crucial source of our organic beeswax and sets the stage for a remarkable story of tradition, craftsmanship, and sustainability.
Amidst the late autumn chill, the crew, alongside Clare Densely, Buckfast Abbey's esteemed beekeeper, embarked on a journey to capture the essence of beekeeping and beeswax harvesting, a foundational element of Gilboys polish.
The collaboration between Gilboys and Buckfast Abbey, rooted in mutual respect for traditional techniques and environmental stewardship, is vividly brought to life on screen. This partnership had evolved from our previous restoration work on the Abbey's antique furniture collection, highlighting a deep-seated commitment to quality and sustainability. The episode artfully showcases how Gilboys leverages the Abbey's beeswax, combined with the finest plant waxes, to create our 'Gold' range of polishes.
Viewers will witness the serene yet diligent bees at work, their gentle hum a testament to the care and respect afforded by Clare and the Abbey's team. This segment underscores the symbiotic relationship between humans and bees, emphasising the importance of ethical sourcing and animal welfare in the production of high-quality beeswax polish.
The narrative then transitions to our workshop in Staverton, where the magic of transforming beeswax into Gilboys Gold Polish is revealed. The audience are introduced to the unique blend of natural waxes, including T1-grade Carnauba and Myrica wax, skillfully combined with pure pine turpentine. This segment not only reveals the artisanal process but also our commitment to avoiding harmful chemicals, showcasing our dedication to both craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.
This episode of "Inside the Factory" does more than just document the production of our beeswax polishes; it celebrates the enduring bond between humans and bees, the importance of sustainable practices, and the art of craftsmanship. The collaboration between Gilboys and Buckfast Abbey serves as a powerful testament to the impact of ethical sourcing and traditional methods in creating a product that not only protects and beautifies furniture but also honours the environment.
As the episode concludes, viewers will be left with a deep appreciation for the meticulous care and passion that goes into every jar of Gilboys beeswax polish. It is a compelling invitation to choose products that are not only superior in quality but also kind to our planet.
Don't miss this mesmerising insight into the world of traditional beeswax polish making on "Inside the Factory" airing on BBC2, Sunday the 18th of February at 8pm and witness how Gilboys stands as a shining example of craftsmanship, sustainability - a beautiful synergy between tradition and environmental stewardship.
Read more about our wax polishes - and what Drew Pritchard has to say about them!