James Middleton's honey exchange with beekeeper sisters Kate and Pippa: 'No rivalry'

James Middleton has been tending to his bees before sitting down for a conversation with HELLO! about becoming a father, his tight-knit family, and, above all, his cherished dogs.

Known primarily for his love of dogs, the Princess of Wales's brother is passionate about outdoor activities, including beekeeping, a hobby he shares with both Kate and their sister, Pippa.

"In our family, we love exchanging jars of honey," he shares in this one-on-one chat. "It's amazing to taste how different locations create distinct flavors and kinds of honey."

So, is there a contest between Kate's Sandringham honey and his Bucklebury honey or Pippa's Kintbury honey?

"Not really. In the beekeeping world, it's all about sharing insights and learning since every year is unique. It's more about exchanging wisdom than rivalry."

During a recent visit to Borough Market in south-east London, Prince William mentioned that Kate "knows everything about bees."

His family, including Pippa and their parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, gifted James his first 1,000 bees for his 24th birthday, sparking his interest.

James, who is set to appear at Goodwoof this month, an event celebrated by the Duke of Richmond as "Glastonbury for dogs," celebrated his 39th birthday last month and is somewhat apprehensive about turning 40.

"Turning 40 feels daunting because it seems old, but I don't feel older than I did at 20."

He's been candid about his past struggles with suicidal thoughts and how his late cocker spaniel Ella offered unconditional love and helped him see life more clearly. Ella, who passed away at age 15 in 2023, played a crucial role in connecting James with his wife, Alizee, a French financial expert.

The two crossed paths at a private members' club in London when James came to collect Ella, who had shown interest in Alizee.

Mistaking him for a server, Alizee got intrigued. As he left, James paid for her drink and left his contact information. Three years later, they wed.

"Could I have dreamed that Ella would lead me to my wife and, a year later, we’d be engaged? Not in a million years."

"But reflecting on today, I feel incredibly lucky. It wasn't about not wanting to live; it was about not being able to continue with the same mindset," he talks about overcoming his depression.

James, who occasionally breeds dogs and provided William and Kate their cocker spaniels Lupo and Orla, attends Goodwoof to introduce his first-aid kit designed for pet emergencies. "

James has joined Goodwoof since its inception in 2022, participating in the inaugural parade with the Duke of Richmond and a group of spaniels.

This year, he's bringing his spaniels, Zulu, Inka, Luna, and Nala, alongside his labradors, Mabel and Isla.