9th April 2016

Apres moi le deluge!

I have totally misappropriated this expression with regard to our visit to Sue and Graham Allison's garden at Thorpe St Andrew on 9th April.
It didn't even wait until Sue had taken members on the tour of the garden. It rained all day!
Sue had arranged for the wet boots etc. and started with a talk about the 6 year development of the woodland garden since the spring of 2010, backed up by a loop of photographs on a screen. Members then had tea and a choice of excellent cakes baked by our host Sue, served by Sarah and Barbra, ( both new committee members), interrupted only by the late presentation to Geoff Wilson of some garden vouchers, which he should have had, along with his commemorative trowel, at the AGM, but the vouchers had been omitted due to the change in Treasurer and lack of responsibility of either for the purpose.
After tea, brave members followed Sue, with their brollies, across the original, lawned garden, with large topiary creature, to the beautiful wooded valley, developed over the last 9 years, bright with narcissus and leucojum, newly emerged leaves on some shrubs and trees, the astonishing scarlet berries of Nandina domestica, among others, down the gentle hairpin bends and up the shallow steps, all supported by wooden edgings, very much in keeping with the nature of the garden. It looked very clean and fresh in the rain and occasional bright patches.
Members then returned to the drive, where a dripping Andrew and similar Colin manned the Plant Sale, assisted by other members of the committee, and helpful individuals.
Sue was able to send £200 to the NOOK Appeal, ( Childrens' Hospice), and the Plant Stall raised £157, plus a late bit, for Group funds. Many thanks to Sue and Graham for hosting, committee for supporting and members for bringing and buying plants and attending in this weather.

Chris Davies