“Sunshine all the way” at our annual Spring Show. The 2 weeks of unusually warm and sunny weather immediately preceding the show encouraged many daffodils and other bulbs to burst into flower just in – very encouraging for the organisers. We had entries for nearly every flower class – most unusual.
The sight and scent of daffodils and hyacinths offered a wonderfully colourful and fragrant welcome. Flowers judge Geoff Hawkins commented on the excellent standard of the entries and their presentation. And Floral Art judge Penny Neyroud was impressed by the high quality of the floral art exhibits – her comment about Ann Hart’s Floral Cup Cake (a petite) was simply “Perfection”.
The cream teas, featuring authentic clotted cream specially ‘couriered’ from Cornwall, offered via waiter/ress service, were a real draw. And the hall was a-buzz with conversation as villagers caught up with friends & family over a cup of tea surrounded by flowers.
The Children’s section was very well supported with 17 exhibits, interpreting decorated eggs & pizza faces with variety and originality.
Chairman Jill Shakespeare awarded Georgia Mitchell the Ernie Stride Children’s Cup, and gave special gifts to each child entrant. She then awarded the small Rose Bowl for Floral Art to Ann Hart and the Spring Challenge cup (for best hyacinth) to Dilys Warwick. Maurice Shakespeare awarded Jill the large Rose Bowl for Flowers and Foliage.
Earlier, we visited Armsworth House on a lovely early Spring day as the guests of Alex Macpherson. Her woodland garden looked fabulous, full of hellebores, many different daffodil cultivars, banks of primulas, aconites & many other unusual bulbs & choice shrubs. Our host & Kenny the gardener offered a guided tour of the whole garden & answered our many questions. Later, Alex generously treated us to a wonderful tea in the barn – sandwiches, cakes & scones with jam & cream, with a welcome cup of tea. Our collection for Naomi House Hospice raised over £100. A splendid day enjoyed by everyone.
Also in March, Marcus Dancer gave an information-packed talk about climbing plants to suit any aspect, using photographs & live specimens. Whilst a well-known clematis grower, on this occasion Marcus focused on other genera, offering over 50 climbers for situations ranging from deep shade to full sun.
At our February meeting, David Standing, head gardener at ‘The Wakes’ gave an illustrated talk about the Cottage Garden.
Coming soon:
Our Plant Sale is on Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd May at the Coffee Room.
We expect to offer locally-sourced vegetable, perennial, bedding and basket plants at bargain prices. This is the best time to set out your summer displays in beds, borders and hanging baskets. So arrive early to get the best choice!
Any questions? Monday 29th June is our Gardeners Question Time with local expert Geoff Hawkins. Bring your queries to make the most of Geoff’s expertise.
Non-members are welcome to all our events.
Dilys Warwick
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