THE August meeting was held in the garden of Orchard House and proved to be a very enjoyable occasion. The weather had looked changeable but after much discussion in the morning we decided to hold the event outside. Last year we sat in the village hall looking enviously at the sunshine; this year we braved the gusts of wind and two bursts of rain and were glad to be out in the fresh air. Seventeen visitors from our partner WI at Ashton Keynes also came making a total of fifty intrepid ladies.

The afternoon started with a glass of red fruit punch and after a short business meeting, our President Marjy welcomed the speaker, Jim Teague, who lives in Ashton and works for the ‘Blue Diamond’ group. Jim gave a wide ranging talk, including advice on plant problems but mostly about his work as plant buyer. He showed us some recent introductions, and some plants which hadn’t succeeded commercially. Among his contacts in the US was a large gentleman who bred Heucheras, and named his findings after his favourite puddings – I recall Key Lime Pie, Crème Caramel etc. Jen Creese gave the vote of thanks.

It was followed by a cream tea of dainty sandwiches and scones which had been prepared by Ruth Clarkson and her helpers. The afternoon ended with a special summer raffle and washing up! Many thanks to Jane Williams-Thomas who kindly lent her lovely garden for the occasion.

Other events in July have included a visit to the open evening at Ball & Colegrave nursery and plant suppliers near Banbury, apparently well-worth a return trip next year. Three members attended a public health lecture organised by the WI in conjunction with the University of Worcester and felt this was an excellent series. For our walk in July we explored the River Avon at Offenham; there will not be a walk in August because of holidays.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 1 and is a Hat Party with quizzes and entertainment in the music-hall style. New members and visitors are always welcome to join us on the first Tuesday of the month at Ashton Village Hall. Meetings start at 7.30pm.

JUDITH HUNTER