THE Society’s Annual General Meeting took place in the Crawford Memorial Hall on November 20 and was well-attended by 51 members. The Chairman, Neil Ferguson, reported that despite a decrease in 2013’s membership of 70 to 58 this year, there had been a good average attendance of 41 per meeting. He encouraged the members present to help in a recruiting drive for next year.

Detailing the year’s activities, Mr Ferguson thanked Tessa Webb for all her hard work in providing excellent speakers covering a wide range of subjects. Thanks also went to: Judy Smith and Graham Spiers for organising three well-attended outings; Annette Haines for looking after the secretarial side of the Society; Liz Heneghan, Treasurer; Frances Freeman for organising the refreshments; John Alexander-Head, membership secretary and Janice Ferguson for publicity. Appreciation was also given to the volunteers who have helped throughout the year, with special mention going to Archie and June Hancox for running the plant stall and providing most of the plants.

The Society’s Treasurer, Liz Heneghan, stated that the finances had shown a slight fall over the year, largely attributable to the declining membership, but it was agreed there would be no increase in the annual subscription of £15.

The Chairman reported that this year’s Annual Show in August attracted 119 entries - 85 in the horticultural section, 27 in the vegetable class and 7 in floral art, and that despite the sometimes difficult growing conditions, the quality of the exhibits was very high. Next year’s Show will be on Saturday, September 19.

The Competition Cup, awarded for the highest points in the monthly competition, was won by Tessa Webb. A brief summary was then given outlining next year’s speakers and garden outings. The final item on the agenda was the unanimous re-election of the Committee for 2015. Having concluded the formal business, members enjoyed a “bring a plate” buffet supper.

Next meeting: December 18, when John Roberts will present a talk entitled ‘Flowers of the Gods.’ Meetings are held at 7.45pm on the third Thursday of the month in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford on Avon. Visitors are most welcome – admission £3, including refreshments. For further details, please contact Annette Haines on 01789 268974 or visit the website on www.bidfordgardens.com

JANICE FERGUSON