ON January 19 Bidford On Avon & District Gardening Society met for an excellent talk by one of its members Pam Collins.

Pam lived in the Caribbean for many years, especially Trinidad & Tobago and her talk 'In a Caribbean Garden' contained beautiful slides of exotic flora, vegetables and wildlife.

As the islands are near to Venezuela and the Equator the seasons tend to be either very wet or dry, resulting in either muddy clay or poor sand. Exotic flowers including Allamanda, trailing Hibiscus, Ginger Lily and Orchids are all common as is the tree Ylang Ylang (the National Flower of Trinidad). Lots of different vegetables and fruit are grown e.g. yams and plantains and Pam tends to seek out her favourites in Birmingham/Coventry markets ! If you are very lucky you might even spot an iguana in your garden. Thanks to Pam for a lovely evening.

We meet again on February 16 and the talk will be 'British Paradise Gardens'. Visitors are welcome (£3 including refreshments). Further details 01789 268974. www.bidfordgardens.com

JUDY SMITH