Members enjoyed their big outing of the year to the Bishops Palace at Welles.The palace and cathedral are neighbours so the excellent planning allowed us to visit both.

The day was perfect, the setting amazing and everyone had a wonderful time walking round the extensive gardens. The water features had long been established and at one time served the palace as well, but are now only ornamental. The deep borders were in full flower and the shady lawns provided opportunity to linger in the cool. It was amazing how many plants were flourishing in deep shade. A new formal garden saw all the "bishops"congregating together......albeit they were dahlias!!!. The day was made more exciting because of the additional attractions, lots of plant stalls and the RHS question time team, as well as the opportunity to taste the local wares.

Many of our members returned to the coach bearing a variety of plants. The impressive cathedral tempted many of us to have a quick walk round and in the afternoon some were lucky to hear the choir singing. Many expressed a wish to return to this, the smallest city in England, to explore more of this charming location. Many thanks to Alison for a very memorable day.

ANN WHITE