The Melksham Gardeners’ Society club members visited Broadleas Garden, Devizes, on 25th June instead of a meeting.
They report, “On a warm evening, 31 of us turned up at this hidden gem, where we had a little talk by Jonathan the head gardener, telling us a bit of the back history to the house and gardens, from when it was built up to the present owners Mr and Mrs Cardiff.
“There were lovely lawns, a hidden garden, a herb knot and vegetable garden, mini orchard and a lovely woodland area dipping down into a mini valley; all with views over fields and countryside and gorgeous informal planting. We even had a deer drop in to have a look. To top it all, we were served sandwiches, cake and a cuppa to restore us after looking round. Thanks go to Mr and Mrs Cardiff for allowing us to take up their evening to look at the gardens and to Jonathan for fielding all the questions.
“In July, club members are off to visit Croombe Court and at our next meeting on 30th July, we will be having a talk by Rob Lewis on Family, Farming Therapy and the role of gardening for vulnerable people.
“We do not have a meeting in August but our next big adventure is the 11th Open Flower and Produce Show to be held on 8th September at the Melksham Assembly Hall from 2 – 4.30pm. There are over 80 classes for fruit, vegetables, floral arrangements, crafts, baking, preserves, photography and classes for younger exhibitors aged 3 – 15 years. To find out more on how to enter the classes, please pick up one of our booklets with all the information and entry forms at Flowers in Focus, Tourist Information Centre in Cannon Square, Melksham Town Council and Melksham Without Parish Council.
“All are welcome to enter as many classes as they wish (only one entry per class though) at 25p per entry – you don’t have to be a member to enter. This is open to everyone! There will also be various stand holders who will be showcasing/selling/demonstrating their wares so there should be something to tempt everyone – encourage the kids to have a go! If you are interested in having a stand (free), please contact as below.
“The show will be open to the public from 2.00pm – 4.30 hours, entry is £2, with a drink and a biscuit thrown in. Presentations of the cups and medals will be at the end of the show by the Mayor who will also be presenting the Melksham in Bloom Awards.
“For our monthly meetings, new members and guests are always welcome. Entry is £1 for members and £2 for guests. Annual membership is £10. For more details please email: melksham_ gardeners@live.co.uk or see us on facebook.”
