The society will look at adding more novice classes to the Annual Show following the success of this year’s event.

Committee members agreed with show secretary Robin Saunders that the show in July had been successful, with 29 people entering 295 exhibits. Despite the dreadful, unsettled, inclement weather conditions during the summer months, members had put on a really good show. Eight more novice classes had been added into the schedule to encourage more people to enter exhibits, and the committee will monitor whether this is working. A shield will be awarded to the Junior and Senior with most points over the three shows at the end of the year. Members also discussed how best to involve the local school and other children to put in their entries. They are also in contact with the staff at the school.

All the coach trips, meetings and holiday had been great and the whole year was exciting. Plans are also going ahead with Mike Hughes, who is setting up an interesting website for the Astley Horticultural Society. Treasurer Mike has been well pleased with the Astley accounts to date. The Kidderminster Countryside Show took place on September 8/9 at the Mercure Hotel. At this event local Horticultural Societies are invited to enter into the planted trough competition. Many congratulations to Astley for gaining first place. Kidderminster will act as hosts for the Morgan Shield Final Round to be held on Friday, October 5 at 7.30pm. at the Holy Innocents Church Hall at Foley Park. The Astley team will face Kidderminster, Kinver and Wollaston.

Meanwhile, the Autumn Show will take place on October 6, and Robin Pearce, from World End Nurseries, will be talking about ‘Herbaceous Perennials’ on October 17: The Harvest Supper (tickets only) will be on October 20, including food, Clock House and ventriloquist Paul Levent. The society will be grateful for raffle donations for the Autumn Show and harvest supper.