BBC Gardeners World Live

Dina Penrose finally hung up her show hat last year after many years of sterling work for the CGS, so that the Committee had to find a new ‘volunteer’ to take on the GWL show.   I suggested Stuart Jones from the Shropshire Group, a passionate and very knowledgeable cottage gardener with a stunning garden.   After a little persuasion he agreed, as long as I would drive the van and deal with the paperwork!   He quickly got on with the planning and Margaret Norris, who had painted such a lovely backdrop for Tatton, agreed to do one for us.

The stand took two days to set up, with all the plants, flowers, veg and fruit all grown by Stuart.   He incorporated a traditional rhubarb forcer and a beehive, complete with a hidden CD playing robin song.   Although the Clubs’ and Societies’ stands are not in the main drag, we had many visitors over the five days of the show, received much praise and many photos were taken.   There is no doubt that an attractive stand increases interest in the Society and we signed up lots of new members.

We received a Highly commended, the only prize level given in the Clubs’ and Societies’ section.   By the end of the five days we agreed we had all had a great time and Stuart was already planning next year!   Unfortunately for us all, he has since had to pull out, so now the hunt is on again!   If you have ever had a secret longing to put a display together at a major show this could be your chance. Contact Pat Matthews to find out more

Elaine Nichols

Thanks from Stuart ... to Margaret Norris for painting the wonderful canvas backdrop and Elaine Nichols who helped so much behind the scenes, arranging the rotas and CGS information for the stand. Also for transporting the plants together with Jackie Crick.   Everything arrived in tip-top condition, even the eight foot Angelica!

When it came to taking the stand down on Sunday, help from Jackie, Elaine and Dave Nichols was invaluable.   Thanks also to Clive Whittle of The Barrell Company for donating proops and to everyone who helped out on the stand, achieving in excess of fifty new members for the CGS.   Lastly a special mention to my wife, Val, who helped design and build the garden and for writing about if for the stand.

Stuart Jones, Shropshire Group