CLOWS TOP & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB: August is traditionally the month for a well-earned break, if you’re going away make sure that the garden can cope with the summer heat. If you can, ask a neighbour or friend to call in to water the plants outdoors, not forgetting the indoor plants too.

August is all about relaxing and enjoying the summer. Schools have broken up, the holidays are here and there’s no better time to have a barbecue, play garden games and splashing about in the paddling pool. Our gardens our looking great with late summer perennials putting on a show-stopping display and the veg patches sending produce in abundance. Relax and soak up the magic of summer.

At the June meeting Linda Eggins, from NCCPG, gave an interesting on the work of Plant Heritage organisation. It was formed to help conserve garden plants. Plants come & go in fashion and to preserve old varieties there are National Collections of plants to conserve and safeguard garden flora.

It was also the clubs Rose & Sweet Pea Show. Some good specimens were entered, many thanks to Anne for judging the show. The results were joint 1st Chris Cowdell, 2nd Bob Marriott and 3rd Marian Wilson. Best Exhibit Suzanne France.

If you’re not a member then come along and join us at one of our monthly meetings. It’s a great opportunity for you to share your thoughts, ideas and advice with other members. We have a great programme of speakers as well as evening visits to local gardens.

The club has a very friendly atmosphere, everyone is welcome. Don’t be afraid to come along, we are a garden club not a horticulture society, the membership is only £10 pa. However, non-members are welcome to any monthly meeting.

The next meeting will be on August 24 and the speaker for the evening will be Rowan Mconegal with a talk entitled hedgerow and garden medicine.

Diary Dates

September 28 is the Autumn Show, an evening with Paul Cook. October 26 is New Zealand by Ray Sturdy.

The club meets on the fourth Wednesday in the calendar month at Clows Top Victory Hall; Doors open 7.30pm, for the speaker at 8pm. Admission fee is £2 for members or non-members £4. Free refreshments.

Further details telephone Marion Wilson 01299 270475 or email clowstopdistrictgardeningclub@hotmail.co.uk