Club provides haven for garden enthusiasts

Jeni Robinson is the chair of the Midhurst Garden Club and Annie Attewell is vice chair and speakers secretary.

Jeni said: “Much has been made in recent times of the importance of gardening whether it be a small patio or a larger garden.

“Getting outdoors, listening to the birds, feeling the sun and working the soil, planting seeds and watching them grow and sharing an abundance of plants and produce is wonderful.

“Buying a special plant is exciting.”

The garden club is affiliated with the Royal Horticultural Society, and has three outings a year to places such as Arundel Castle, Sissinghurst, Loseley, Mottisfont for the roses, Pashley for the tuilips, Woolbeding, Exbury Gardens (planned for October this year) and many more.

Annie said: “We are an active and thriving club with membership in excess of 120.

“Our planned 40th anniversary lunch had to be postponed until February 2022 due to the Covid pandemic.”

The club, which was established in 1981, meets on the second Monday of every month at the South Downs National Park Memorial Hall.

Annie said: “The club provides an opportunity for like minded people of all ages to socialise and share their interest in all things horticultural.

“Our members have told us they have sorely missed our club nights.

“Many friendships have been forged over the years through the garden club. Lively monthly newsletters keep members informed and encourage a feeling of community.

“We have had a monthly draw during the pandemic and the winner each month is presented with a posy or a planted pot.”

In the past there has been garden holiday clubs, and visiting speakers.

The club is organized by a committee of seven with each person having a particular responsibility.

Annual subscription is £10.00 with £1.00 door entrance fee for club nights. Visitors are welcome to attend meetings for £3.00 entry fee.

For more information, visit midhurstgardenclub.co.uk