ON November 21 the Society held its Annual General Meeting in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford, with 40 members in attendance.

The chairman, Neil Ferguson, was pleased to report that membership numbers this year had risen to 72, which is 11 more than last year, with an average attendance per meeting of 43.

Briefly outlining the year's activities he gave special thanks to all Committee members, especially Tessa Webb for providing some excellent speakers and Judy Smith for arranging 2 well-supported all day coach outings to gardens in Gloucestershire, Warwickshire and Windsor Great Park, as well as an evening visit to nearby Ragley Hall Gardens.

The Society's Annual Show in early April attracted the magnificent total of 177 entries and the judge, Jeff Soulsby, summed up the display as "A fabulous reflection of Spring."

Following Liz Heneghan's report on the state of the finances, a brief summary was given of our speakers and outings for 2020, - a Spring visit to RHS Wisley in Surrey and gardens in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire in the Summer.

The Chairman also gave his appreciation to all the members who have helped in various ways to ensure the smooth running of the Society. John Alexander-Head was awarded the monthly Competition Cup and after the conclusion of the formal business, members enjoyed the highlight of the evening - a 'Bring and Share' supper.

On 19th December, Paul Reeves, a member of the Society will present ' A Taste of Gardens Down Under.' This illustrated talk will cover his visits to the Botanical Gardens of Perth, Melbourne and Hobart while on a recent holiday.

There will also be warm mince pies and a raffle. All meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7.45 pm in the Crawford Hall, Bidford.

Visitors are very welcome at £3.50, including refreshments.

For further details please ring 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com