VISITORS are always welcome on the first Monday of the month at Colwall Village Hall WR13 6EQ.

We meet for 7.30pm when there is a talk given by a person well versed in their speciality. Arrive early, meet the members and enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee.

However, the October meeting will take place at The Elms School Theatre where we will host the 28th Percy Picton Memorial Lecture, reception 7pm. This years lecture 100 Plants That Nearly Changed The World is given by Chris Beardshaw.

Chris is well known through his writing, broadcasting and television work. A humorous and well versed gardener we are sure to be well entertained. This is a ticket only event; tickets might still be available through John Goodwin or Old Court Nurseries both in Colwell.

Last months meeting was a splendid presentation by Jenifer Harmer, the Hardy Plant Society historian. Her talk, The Gardening Garniers, traced the horticultural impact of a Huguenot family from their arrival in London in the 1680s culminating in the work of Thomas Garnier, Dean of Winchester, who died in 1873. Thomas is remembered through the Winchester Deanery garden.

Come early, the reception is at 7pm, make/meet friends and discuss your gardening interests (and challenges). There are many experienced and knowledgeable gardeners who are happy to answer questions. Subscriptions, payable in January, are £12.

One of many benefits of our Society for new members, joining in October through to December, is their membership runs until renewal in January 2016.

TIM BEAUMONT