Bidford-on-Avon WI and District Gardening Society (From Cotswold Journal)

Bidford-on-Avon WI and District Gardening Society

9:30am Friday 25th May 2012 in Grassroots

MEMBERS met on May 17 at Crawford Hall for a very amusing talk/ demonstration, entitled Chairs to Chelsea by Richard Cook, from Lodge Farm Plants, Hatton.

He and his wife Jan specialise in fruit trees and wildflower meadows. They also advise on show gardens across the country and hedging/woodland management. Richard restores old chairs, working with cane, rushwork, twisted seagrass and other materials.

He gave members a very interesting demonstration showing the various methods he uses to renovate old chairs he finds at car boots etc. He told us amusing tales of when he taught at Stratford College, when he featured on BBC’s Countryfile and his various experiences at Chelsea Flower Show and others.

He also gave us several gardening tips along the way.

At the end of the demo we were shown how to make a simple wreath and a whistle.

Richard was a born entertainer.

The competition ‘An ornamental garden accessory’ was won by Pat Dayman.

Our next meeting will be on June 21 when we will be visiting some members’ gardens in Ardens Grafton.

The next talk will be on July 19 about pests and diseases.

Visitors and new members always welcome. Enquiries to 01789 268974, e-mail bidfordgardens.org.