Wollaston Gardener's Guild

The members held their monthly meeting at Stourbridge Institute on July 18 which was chaired by vice chairman June Bowkley. She opened the meeting by welcoming both existing, new members, visitors, and introduced the speaker for the night, Derek Higgot

Jim Baker reminded members of the outing to "Eaton Hall Gardens" on July 31 starting at 9.30

Derek had come along from Little Haywood, near Cannock Chase to give his talk entitled" The Secret Garden" accompanied with slides. This was the story, delivered in inimitable style, very humorous throughout, of how he transformed a half acre site, which was completely overgrown, into a stunning garden over a 30 year period. The garden is planted with a multitude of trees, shrubs, and plants, with lots of fascinating ornaments and structures added over the years, which makes this a really magical place. Derek opens the garden for the National Garden Scheme during the year.

June thanked Derek for his most excellent talk, and the members responded in the usual manner

The first prize winners in the monthly show where as follows: 7 - Garden peas, M Grice; 3 - Japanese onions, J Knight; 5 - Early potatoes, J Boswell; 3 - Courgettes, M Grice; 1 - Cucumber, J Knight; 7 - Sweet peas, G Langley; 6 - Pansies on card, H Barnett; 1 - Pot geranium, J James; 6 - Jam tarts, J James; 6 - Butterfly cakes, J James.

June closed the meeting, wished everyone a safe journey home, and hoped everyone had enjoyed the evening.

The next meeting will be held on August 15 which will be a entitled, "My inspirational mentors and their plants" presented by renowned plantsman, breeder, and nurseryman John Massey.

The group meets on the third Monday of each month at The Stourbridge Institute at 7 for 7.30pm, when all visitors are welcome. For further details phone 01384 828654.