FOR our May gathering a full coach load of members and their guests visited two gardens in the Malvern area. The first visit was to Little Malvern Court, a beautiful garden attached to a former Benedictine Monastery . The garden was divided up into “rooms” around the house and sloped downwards towards a series of cascading lakes and a less formal area. There were magnificent views over the Severn Valley, a wonderful collection of trees, including a 250 year old lime that had been recently “pruned”, and the head gardener was on hand to answer any questions. After a stop for lunch the next visit was Perrycroft Gardens, Colwall. Again an interesting house, built in the Arts and Craft style with views towards the Welsh mountains. A steep garden leading down to a wild flower meadow and ponds with a woodland walk to the side. A more formal area with a walled garden was situated adjacent to the house.

Our next meeting is on Thursday June 16 with Frank Hardy talking -and no doubt with demonstrations - on Ground Cover Plants That Really Work. The competition will be, one rose stem in a vase ,there will be a raffle and also plants for sale. Visitors are most welcome-admission £3 inc. refreshments. For further details please phone 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardensit.com

LIZ HENEGHAN