THE Society’s AGM took place on November 17 in the Crawford Memorial Hall with around forty members in attendance. As part of the formal business the Chairman, Neil Ferguson, reported on the year’s activities, giving special thanks to Tessa Webb for providing such excellent speakers and to Judy Smith for organising three well-attended coach outings to gardens in Malvern and Shropshire. Liz Heneghan, the Society’s Treasurer, reported on the state of the finances, all of which were accepted as being satisfactory. As a result it was decided not to increase the annual subscription of £15 or the visitor fee of £3 for each meeting. A brief summary was given outlining next year’s speakers and also visits to gardens in Herefordshire and Wiltshire. Appreciation was also given to all the members and volunteers who have helped throughout the year in various ways to ensure the smooth running of the Society. Annette Haines was awarded the Cup for the most points in the monthly competition and after the conclusion of the formal business the members enjoyed a “Bring and Share” supper.

Since the AGM we have learned the very sad news of the death of Dr Lallie Cox. Both she and her husband, Dr Andy Cox, founded the Society in October 1970 and together they worked tirelessly over the years in various capacities to ensure its continuing success. Under the National Gardens Scheme their much-visited, beautiful garden has raised many thousands of pounds for various charities. Dr Cox’s expertise as a fine plantswoman and author of several gardening books will be a very sad loss to the horticultural world.

The Society’s next meeting is on December 15 when Christopher Cunningham will present a talk on Shakespeare’s recently renovated “New Place Gardens” in Stratford. Visitors are very welcome to join us at 7.45pm on the third Thursday of the month in the Crawford Hall, Bidford on Avon. Admission £3, including refreshments. For further details please contact Annette Haines on 01789 268974 or visit www.bidfordgardens.com

JANICE FERGUSON