The Society’s Annual Show, which took place on September 19, proved to be a great success. Despite the disappointing and somewhat unusual weather conditions this Summer, members managed to respond to the challenge by providing 134 entries – 85 in the Horticultural Section, 31 in the Vegetable Section and 18 in the Floral Art, which overall represented about 10% more than last year. The judge, Mr Andy Pedrick, commented on the excellent quality of the exhibits and also gave some useful advice on how to choose the best specimens for showing in the future.

The Rose Bowl, presented to the member with the most points in the Horticultural Section, was won by Josie Sawtell, with four joint runners-up sharing the George Cope Cup: John Alexander-Head, Judy Smith, Annette Haines and Janice Ferguson. Mrs Haines also gained the highest points in the Vegetable Section, receiving the Marjorie Irons Cup. The Bidford Flower Cup was won jointly by Tessa Webb and Josie Sawtell for their entries in the Floral Art Section. Finally the judge selected a beautiful white Mandevilla plant grown by Ann Price as the best single exhibit in the Show and she was duly awarded the Jordan Vase. Congratulations were given by the Chairman, Neil Ferguson, to the Cup winners and to all the members who contributed to making this such a splendid event.

On Thursday, October 15, the Society welcomes Dr Murray Mylechreest who will present a talk entitled “Gardens in Trust.” Visitors will be warmly received at any of our meetings at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford on Avon. For further information, please contact Annette Haines on 01789 268974 or visit www.gardens.com

JANICE FERGUSON