MEMBERS Ann Sheppard and John Taylor opened their Defford country garden in August for the HPS’s 60th Anniversary. Many people enjoyed the sunshine, refreshments, and interesting plants and garden features on show.

The September Celebrities Day at Pershore College attracted visitors from as far away as Sussex. HPS President, Roy Lancaster, enthralled the audience with tales of his life as a plantsman. His interest began aged 13, with the chance find of a Mexican tobacco plant. Roy’s enthusiasm for plants remains undimmed and it was hard to believe that he is now in his 80th year. Julian Sutton began the day with his talk ‘How Flowers Came to be’ explaining how the environment has influenced plant development. Derry Watkins followed on with ‘New Plant Introductions from Around the World’, highlighting plants that have caught her eye. Plants for sale and advice from a master composter, completed this most enjoyable day.

Our next meeting is at Crowle Parish Hall, WR7 4AZ, on Saturday, 14 October at 2pm. Tamsin Westhorpe, former editor of The English Garden magazine, will speak on ‘Life as a Garden Magazine Editor’. For more information on our group, visit: www.worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk

JAYNE SAVAGE