THE first meeting of the New Year was held on a freezing cold evening with thick frost, a rarity during this winter. The chairman, Jonathan Collins, thanked everyone for turning out on such a cold night. The 2016 programme of events was given out, along with details of some exciting trips and events being planned by the Gardening Club. In addition to the Spring and Annual Shows, Mickleton will be hosting the Interclub Quiz in March and there will be Open Gardens in June.

The speaker for the January meeting was Dr John Page. The topic of ‘The Garden in Winter’ was very appropriate for the cold evening. We were treated to an excellent slide show which included beautiful views of some well-known gardens around the country. Photographs of Acers, Conifers, Grasses, Jasmin, Snowdrops, Silver Birches and many more showed how the winter garden could be as spectacular as a summer garden. The shape and form of trees can be seen clearly in winter and what could be more beautiful than shimmering frost on the tree branches. Through Dr Page’s enthusiasm and extensive knowledge we were able to see how the garden could be just as good in winter with the appropriate plants in place.

There was a vote of thanks to Dr Page followed by the announcement of the competition winner, Susan Ward, for her photograph of the ‘Garden in Winter’.

SANDRA REED