The members held their monthly meeting at Stourbridge Institute on 20th April, which was chaired by Adam Greathead. He opened the meeting by announcing some sad news, Harry Pratley who was a life member of the guild, and former committee member had passed away. The members were asked to observe a minutes silence.

President Eric Southall addressed the meeting and paid tribute to Harry Pratley, he said what an outstanding gardener he was, and that he had specialised in Auriculas.

Eric went on to say that the lovely weather had brought on some lovely spring flowers, but the ground was now getting quite dry, and it was time to get some mulch around plants, using compost or bark chippings to conserve moisture. Eric also reminded members of the presidents plant sale on May 17.

Everybody is welcome to the sale, proceeds to Crossroads Dudley.

Adam then introduced the speaker for the evening Ray Sturdy who delivered an excellent and detailed history of Witley Court accompanied by a slide show.

Adam thanked Ray for a most interesting talk, and the members responded in the usual manner The first prize winners in the monthly show where as follows: 5 White/Purple Sprouting broccoli E Southall; 1 Bunch of Wallflowers M Hodgin; 3 Tulips M Grice; 3 Multi headed Daffodils D Castle; 1 Foliage Pot Plant J Boswell; 8 Pieces Shortbread U Langley; 1 Savoury Flan U Langley; Photograph “Flower of the Month” H Tromans.

Adam Greathead closed the meeting, wished everyone a safe journey home, and hoped everyone had enjoyed the evening. The next meeting will be held on May 18. The speaker will be Paul Green and the talk is entitled “Green Leaves” - Paul talks about his successful nursery, and shares his passion for plants with the Guild (plant sales) We meet on the third Monday of each month at The Stourbridge Institute at 7 for 7.30pm. For further details phone 01384 828654.