January 2021
Happy New Year everyone from Sally and the RGC Committee. Let's all hope that 2021 is an improvement on 2020!
Current restrictions mean that unfortunately, the Club cannot meet at present. We do have a speaker booked for March but he can be rescheduled depending upon the restrictions in force at the time.
We had awinner for our Christmas Quiz, they have chosen as their prize a pink cactus dahlia tuber.
If you missed the quiz the questions are shown below. We will publish the answers in the February update, but no prize this time
Finally, a glimpse of spring, Sally spotted this primrose whilst out dog walking.
CHRISTMAS 2020 UPDATE
Hello everyone, we would like to aplogise for the long delay in updating the website. We are however hoping that we can restart the site for 2121 and keep it going. This is the first attempt, by a novice, to add text and pictures, apologies if it looks a bit odd.
Thank you to those members who have made and photographed something "Christmassy", the photographs are displayed below.
Finally, the Chair and Committee wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, hoping we can all meet again in the not too distant future.
Ruspidge Gardening Club
It's our 10th anniversary!!
Welcoming all members old or new to come and join us for a party and celebration of the ten years of our Gardening Club. As well as some drinks and nibbles, we'll be seeing some photos of member's gardens and having a chat and a laugh about events past, present and future. To mark this special occasion we will be planting an Amelanchier (June berry) tree in the park. Hope to see you there!
Wednesday 14th August 2019
7.30- 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
June Meeting
Posted- 9th June 2019
Speaker ~ Mervyn Reed
An insight into the history & developement of the English Rose
Wednesday 12th June 2019
7.30- 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Plant Sale Success
Posted- 12th May 2019
The Plant Sale once again a huge success! Thanks to everyone for donations of plants and cakes, for volunteering and for supporting us.
Also see gallery
Community Growing Pictures
Posted- 10th April 2019
Check out some photos of our of our community growing projects
Posted- 10th April 2019
The Ruspidge Gardening Club
Community Garden Growing Project
now has its very own Instagram page
ruspidgegrows at www.instagram.com
April Meeting
Posted- 3rd April 2019
Speakers ~ Sue Smith & Sue Dodd
Gardening for Butterflies and Moths
10th April 2019
7.15- 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
A reminder that the annual PLANT SALE is in a month’s time on Saturday MAY 11th. Please consider planting extra seeds, taking cuttings or layering any of your favourite plants for sale at this event. Some of the proceeds will be spent at our 10 year Anniversary in August, when we will open the doors to current and past members of the club to celebrate our gardening achievements over the past decade.
Community Garden Sow and Grow
Posted- 4th March 2019
Sowing and Growing for Community Garden at Ruspidge Park
March 30th 2019
10am - 1pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Lower Hall
March Meeting
Posted- 8th March 2019
Gail Plant
Mrs Plant's Scented Garden, Much Marcle
Winter and Spring Scent in the Garden
13th March 2019
7.15- 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Raffle and Refreshments
Jolterisms
Posted- 11th February 2019
Fame at Last
Pat from Jolters Press Cider and Perry came to visit us in January. Jolters is named after ol' Jolter, a character well known in the Forest for his sayings! Pat collects these saying which are known as Jolterisms.
Louise, one of our members told Pat about a line she had in a play at school using the name Jolter. This Jolterism has now been used on a label for 'Katy' a single variety medium sparkiling cider!!
Louise is the one not looking at the camera in the red scarf!
February Meeting
Posted- 10th February 2019
January Meeting
Posted- 2nd January 2019
9th January 2019
7.15- 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Pat Lock from JOLTER CIDER will be re-visiting the club (with samples for sale) to update the club with news from the cider making business.
Then.......
GARDENERS' QUESTION TIME
A panel of experts from the club will be answering your questions about any gardening problems or queries you might wish to put to them. This is a great opportunity to make use of their expert knowledge .
It will be helpful if any questions are sent to us in advance so that we have an idea of how many queries need to be answered!
All members and non-members will be warmly welcomed to this meeting.
A Raffle and refreshments are available.
December Meeting
Posted - 19th November 2018
Jackie Beard
Christmas Decorations
Back by popular demand-
Making Christmas Decorations with Jackie Beard
Bring along greenery, seed heads, berries,
ribbons and baubles to make a beautiful wreath, swag or table decoration to decorate your home for Christmas.
Jackie will give guidance on how to assemble a decoration but do bring along a pair of secateurs and gloves.
After the crafting is complete, join us for festive nibbles and drinks to continue the seasonal celebrations
October Meeting
Posted - 6th October 2018
Speaker ~ Nick Morgan
A Considered Approach to Managing Garden Pests and Diseases
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
August Meeting
Posted - 6th August 2018
8th August 2018
May Meeting
Posted - 9th May 2018
Speaker ~ Andy Pedrick
Clematis and other unusual climbers
May 9th 20187.30pm - 9.15pmRuspidge Memorial hallAndy is a professional horticulturalist. He has worked with Clematis for a long time and he will simplify the mysteries of their care for us - such as when and how to prune the different types and growing conditions. He will also bring along some other unusual climbers such as the Wag-a-waga vine.There will be plants for sale including some new varieties of clematis. They are all priced at about £6 per plant.
April Meeting
Posted - 7th April 2018
Speaker ~ Jerry Green
Westbury Court Garden
April 11th 20187.30pm - 9.15pmRuspidge Memorial hallSoft Fruit
Hanley Swan Open Gardens
Posted - 7th April 2018
Hanley Swan Open Gardens
May 5/6/7th MayOpen from 12 - 5pm every dayA beautiful english village in the foothills of the wonderful Malvern Hills, with a award winning village pond and pub!Tickets are £6, children under 16 free, and the ticket covers all three days.Plant sales, free parking, disabled toilets, Go Potty competition in the church.Light lunches and afternoon teas served at No.1 from 12 noon. Cream Teas in the church from 2.pm.Sat Nav WR8 0DNQuestions - 01684 310920Dogs welcome
Sow and Grow Results
Posted - 24th March 2018
Many thanks to Edward and his family for sending in these pictures of his seedlings growing!
Tallest Sunflower Competition
Posted - 9th March 2018
Copies of the entry form for the 'Tallest Sunflower Growing Competition' are available from at the Community Sow and Grow or from Nicky
Community Event
Posted - 4th February 2018
Community Sow and Grow Event
Saturday 10th March
10.30am - 12.30pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
This is a free event, everyone is welcome…
children and adults!
Choose from a variety of vegetables and flower seeds to plant
with the seeds, compost, and containers provided free
There will be lots of advice and help at hand
for those who have limited skills
There will also be a competition:
Plant yourself some sunflower seeds …
Will your sunflower be the tallest at the end of the summer??
Refreshments - available for a nominal charge.
(WARNING….this will involve cakes!!!)
Please join us Saturday 10th March 10.30 -12.30
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
(Ruspidge Road GL14 3AE)
March Meeting
Posted - 1st March 2018
Speaker ~ Andy Pedrick
Wednesday 14th March
7.30am - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Back by popular demand is Andy Pedrick. Our propagation expert, Andy has worked in the gardening trade since he was teenager.
He brings with him compost, plants, rooting powder and pots to start propagating for our own gardens and the plant sale. He will also demonstrate root cuttings and layering.
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
February Meeting
Posted - 10th February 2018
Speaker ~ Carl Woodman
Wednesday 14th February
7.30am - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Potato Day
Posted - 11th January 2018
There is a Potato Day at Littledean community centre on Saturday 17 th February 10 am to 2pm. There will be 60 varieties of potato all for sale, by the single tuber, plus onion and shallot sets, heritage seeds, fruit trees, soft fruit, kitchen garden plants and much more.
All provided by Pennard Plants. Entry fee £1
January Meeting
Posted - 3rd January 2018
Jolter's Cider
Wednesday 10th January 2018
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
Gardens Supplies
Posted - 14th December, 2017
*NEW* Gardening and Plants Suppliers Page.
If it's garden supplies you need, you can find it here.
All the favourites you know and love and maybe a few you don't!
Great suppliers of everything you need for the garden, plants and seeds. All highly recommended.
Christmas Social Evening 2017
Posted - 14th December, 2017
Smiles all round. A lovely evening.
See some more snaps here
Jackie Beard
Decorating for Christmas!
Make a Christmas Swag/Garland or Table Decoration
Wednesday 13th December 2017
7.30pm - 9.30pm
also
our favourite quizmasters Lisa & Woody return with our ever popular Christmas Quiz
So don't miss out, come and join us for
refreshments, Christmas nibbles,
and be there to celebrate with the rest of the gang :)
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Christmas Raffle
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Speaker ~ Diana Parsons
Fungii
Wednesday 8th November 2017
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
Diana is an expert on fungi and is the leader of the Worcestershire Fungi Trust having been involved in mycology for 18 years. She hopes to illustrate her talk with specimens of fungi – depending on local availability prior to the talk. Her talk will include folklore associated with fungi, edible and poisonous species and many more aspects of the subject.
Raffle prizes welcomed, as usual, for the meeting!
Also –could any member who is interested in helping with a seed event for the community (not the club seed swap), in late February, please try and get to the hall early on Wednesday so that we can have a preliminary chat about the feasibility of running such an event. Sally and Pam will be there from 6.45p.m.
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Please bring along your preserves made from fruits, vegetables or fungi from your gardens (or even other people’s gardens) or from hedgerow forages to spread information about your favourite preserves and their flavours, textures and good methods of making them.
Especially welcome will be products with elusive and difficult to identify flavours so that members can have fun in trying to identify the hidden ingredients.
If you are bringing a preserve, please e-mail Sally Graham so that she knows how many items to expect for the evening.
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Posted - August 26th, 2017
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Open Garden
Posted - August 26th, 2017
Poole Cottage Open Garden
Coppett Hill, Goodrich
Saturday & Sunday
9th & 10th September 2017
11am - 5pm
Admission Adults £4
Tea, coffee and homemade cakes plus plants for sale.
Due to limited local parking please park in the village (HR9 6HX)
and use the shuttle service that will be running all day
or walk the 10-15 minutes up the hill.
This garden belongs to Jo Ward-Ellison who came to speak for us back in February.
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Members discount
Posted - August 26th, 2017
Ashridge Nurseries
Ashridge Nurseries are currently offering a 10% discount for members of gardening clubs, and horticultural societies. The web address is www.ashridgetrees.co.uk
Enter HORT10 at the checkout stage.
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August Meeting/Garden visit
Posted - August 3rd, 2017
THE GABLES, at BROADOAK
This is at the home of Brian and Christine Bamber.
The Garden was established 11 yrs
ago from blank canvas. It is a large flat garden with formal lawns, colourful herbaceous borders, shrubberies and long border with mini stumpery. It includes a wild flower meadow incorporating soft fruits and fruit trees, an allotment-size productive vegetable plot, greenhouse and composting area.
Meet at the hall at 7.00pm and share cars as for the previous meeting.
It would be appreciated if you would let Sally Graham know by Monday 7th August if you will be going to the garden as the owners need an approximate number of people attending (sallymg@live.co.uk ).
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The Meeting House photos
Posted - July 15th, 2017
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July Garden Visit
Posted - June 29th, 2017
Chris and Sally Parsons at the Meeting House, Popes Hill, have 27 acres of land, which includes 3 Meadows, two with fruit trees, and one with three friendly cows. They also have beautiful gardens, and there are fruit and vegetable areas as well as large scale composting. Chris is passionate about the benefits of meadows, and has even offered to sickle cut our meadow, if we decide to have one.
Meet at Ruspidge Hall at 7pm, those who find early difficult could meet us there. Members could look at the area behind the Hall before we set off, sharing cars, at 7.10pm. There are barns and outdoor covered areas where we could shelter in poor weather, but blankets or foldable chairs would be needed.
There will be no cost to members. £2 to non members. The Club will make a donation of £30 to Dean Meadows. See their website for more info at www.deanmeadows.org.uk
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Butterfly talk
Posted - June 1st, 2017
Speaker
Simon Glover
Forest Butterfly Conservation Officer
Butterfly Conservation
(Gloucestershire branch)
Wednesday 14th June 2017
Butterfly walk CANCELLED
Meet at the hall as usual at 7.30pm
Simon is especially interested in the
Small PearlBordered Fritillary (pictured)
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
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Plant Sale photos
Posted - May 14th, 2017
Also see Gallery
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------Bluebell Teas
Posted - April 24th, 2017
Sunday April 30th, Monday May 1st and Sunday May 7th
‘Bluebell Lunches and Teas’ to be enjoyed at Soudley Village Hall. 
The days begin at 11.00am and close at 4.00pm. Throughout the day there will be hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, light lunches and cakes on offer – all freshly made. So come along and take a walk through the Soudley Valley bluebells and then visit the hall for some refreshments.
Contacts are Libby 01594 822289 and Ruth 01594 827457.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------April Meeting
Posted - April 6th, 2017
Andy Pedrick
'Aspects of Propagation'
Wednesday 12th April 2017
7.30pm - 9.15pm
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Andy spoke to the club at a previous meeting about propagation but this time he will focus on propagating plants we can sell at the May plant sale, and he will bring examples for us to grow. He will also bring some of his own plants to sell to club members.
For this meeting, please bring plants, seedlings and any other material you would like to propagate or thin out, either for yourself or for the sale, and at approximately 8.30p.m.the more experienced members will help out with a practical session. Hazel will bring some easy seeds to grow and Judy and Lisa will help. Andy has promised to help with any awkward problems as he has vast experience in the horticultural business.
Come and have an informal, practical session and bring along any materials as long as they involve propagation! Materials, such as compost, pots and trays will be available. Members can help themselves to drinks at anytime in the practical session
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Open Evening
Posted - April 6th, 2017
NORTHWOOD GREEN GARDENING CLUB PLANT SALE & OPEN EVENING
Thursday 4th May
6.45pm
Buy your plants
(grown by keen gardeners) for the summer & then join us, if you like, for a talk on
It’s not all about flowers
by Paul Green from
Green Leaves Nursery Newent
at 7.30pm
All Welcome at
NORTHWOOD GREEN SOCIAL HALL
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Ruspidge Daffs
Posted - March 20th, 2017
Ruspidge Daffodils, thanks to Nicky for the pics!
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February Meeting
Posted - January 14th, 2017
Speaker
Jo Ward-Ellison 'Creating a Country Garden'
Wednesday 8th February 2017 7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall Raffle and Refreshments
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
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NGS Snowdrop Festival
Posted - January 22nd, 2017
Second Annual National Gardens Scheme Snowdrop Festival
More than 80 gardens will open their gates for the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) Snowdrop Festival during February, to mark the imminent change of season with their snowdrop displays. Some of the gardens open have as many as 300 different varieties of snowdrops, whilst others have a mix of snowdrops, hellebores and other early spring flowers, all of which makes a visit to an NGS garden well worth the effort of being outdoors on a cold day. http://www.ngs.org.uk/gardens/snowdrop-festival.aspx
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Ruspidge Gardening Club
would like to wish all our members and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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January Meeting
Posted - December 20th, 2016
Speaker
Michael Ayland
'Following the Wye Valley Railway'
Wednesday 11th January 2017
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Raffle and Refreshments
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
--------------------------------------------------------------------------Christmas Meeting
Posted - November 16th, 2016
Christmas Social Evening
Make a Christmas Swag/Garland with Jackie Beard
also
Woody's Quiz
and
Christmas Nibbles
Wednesday 14th December 2016
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
They can be used over a door, down the wall or across a mantel piece or even a wide window ledge, or over a wooden open staircase. Using a rope as a starting point, unless you have some good stems on Vines, Virginia creeper, Ivy, Clematis etc. Other foliage could be fir tree, thuja/ douglas fir/ spruce/ holly/ ivy. A reel of binding wire and cones, flowers and ribbons, dried fruit/ nuts/ baubles, battery lights and the list goes on …..depending how elaborate you want it to be!
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
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October Meeting
Posted - October 7th, 2016
Speaker ~ Jerry Green, Gardener in charge
Westbury Court Garden
Choosing and Planting Apples
Wednesday 12th October 2016
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
Apples – to cover all aspects such as choosing planting and maintaining
There will also be a short apple tasting event during the evening and you are invited to bring along apple containing goodies for the delectation of the audience and fellow members. Please bring small samples and, maybe, a recipe to accompany your offering. Alternatively you may like to bring along an unusual apple which can be sliced up for members to taste.
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September Meeting
Posted - September 6th, 2016
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Flower and Vegetable Show
Posted - August 14th, 2016
Bream Gardening Society
151st Vegetable & Flower Show
The oldest flower and produce show in the Forest
Saturday August 20th 2016
Bream Rugby Field
behind the clubhouse off the High Street
Open 1.30pm
Marquee opens 2pm
See the best of local vegetables, flowers and crafts including a children's section
Field and craft stands and walking stick displays
Car Boot Sale - 1:30 pm (Cars £5, Vans £8)
Entry Schedules available from Marina Lambert,
Myrtle GCottage Oakwood Road, Bream. GL15 6HU
01594-562894
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Garden visit to Barn House Garden
Posted - August 14th, 2016
See gallery Barn House Garden
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Open Gardens
Posted - July 17th, 2016
Open Gardens
Yorkley, Viney Hill, Oldcroft & Pillowell
Sunday 24th July 2016
11am - 5pm
in support of Yorkley Newsletter
£5 entry to all gardens, accompanied children free
Home made cakes and cream teas
Plants for sale
Tickets from Yorkley Post Office Stores
or on the day from any garden
Jeanne 01594 563936
email: vlasta_rhea@yahoo.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------Littledean Open Gardens
Posted - June 14th, 2016
Littledean Open Gardens
Saturday 18th June & Sunday 19th June
11am - 5pm
13 Private Gardens and Littledean Allotment Gardens available to visit
Daily admission £5 per person
Weekend pass £7.50pm
Ticket available from Brayne Court or any open garden
www.littledean.org
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Garden Visits
Posted - June 10th, 2016
See gallery here
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June Meeting
Posted - June 4th, 2016
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Pludds Open Gardens
Posted - May 25th, 2016
The Pludds Open Gardens
Saturday 4th June
10am - 4pm
The Pludds
Food and brochures at the Village Hall
GL17 9UB Details 01594 860169
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Wyevale Garden Centres
Posted - May 25th, 2016
Wyevale Garden Centres have very kindly been in touch to tell us
how passionate they are about gardening and helping customers plan their outdoor spaces. They offer a wide range of quality plants and gardening equipment in all of their 152 centres situated across England and Wales.
On their website they also have a great gardening advice section.
They say~
'You may be passionate about nurturing fruit, tending summer veg or simply just love pottering in your patch. Whatever your thing we are brimming with handy tips, help and up to the minute advice on how to get the most out of your garden every month.'
You can find this by visiting http://www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/gardening-advice
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Wonkee Donkee
Posted - May 25th, 2016
We have recently become stockists for Forest Garden, the British producer of timber garden products. We supply items such as summerhouses, sheds, decking, planters and garden furniture to the whole of the UK through our website http://www.wonkeedonkeeforestgarden.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------Thank you!
Posted - May 20th, 2016
Our annual Plant Sale was a great success and we had a really good turnout. A huge thank you to everyone who helped out in some way. It is your generous donations of plants, cakes, books and raffle prizes that make it all possible. Of course much appreciation also to all those who supported us by coming along.
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Plant Sale
Posted - May 15th, 2016
Plant Sale
Saturday 21st May
Littledean Community Centre
Refreshments, Vegetable and Flower Plants, Cake Stall, Bric a brac
Free Entry
Proceeds to Littledean Allotments Association
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Bluebell Teas Posted - April 5th, 2016
Once again Bluebell Teas will be available at Soudley Village Hall during May Day holiday weekend on Sunday 1st and Monday 2nd May 2016. Opening at 11.00am and continuing until 4.00pm you will be able to enjoy coffee and cakes, light lunches with puddings and afternoon teas. Go along and enjoy delicious refreshments before or after a walk amongst the bluebells.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------Help to Get Growing for the Plant Sale Posted - March 25th, 2016
-------------------------------------------------------------------------April Meeting Posted - March 14th, 2016 Speaker ~ Max Wilson
Bumblebee Conservation Trust
Wednesday 13th April 2016
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
Max is a local volunteer for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. He will be giving us an introduction to the UK' s most effective pollinators. Their species, life cycle, enormous contribution and the worrying threats to their survival which will affect us all, and what each one of us can do to help preserve them.
------------------------------------------------------------------------- March Meeting Posted - February 25th, 2016
Speaker ~ Mark Moir of Newent Plant Centre
Wednesday 9th March 2016
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Raffle, and Refreshments
Plants for sale!
Newent Plant Centre stock a range of beautiful, well-kept and healthy plants. Of their plant gardens they say~
Each of our external plant areas are laid out to inspire you with ideas for your own garden planting. Our customers always comment on how gorgeous and effective this looks and many say what a delight it is to see somewhere that sets the plants out in a different fashion. More importantly they also say it’s great to see what plants will look like together once planted in the garden. So pay us a visit and take a little time out to relax in one of our chairs and breathe in our displays. www.newentplantcentre.co.uk
----------------------------------------------------------------------- Scented Plants Website Posted - February 11th, 2016
----------------------------------------------------------------------- Snowdrop Festival 2016 Posted - February 3rd, 2016
News about the National Gardens Scheme’s first ever Snowdrop Festival. More than one hundred NGS gardens across England and Wales will open through February, giving visitors the opportunity to see veritable carpets of beautiful snowdrops and watch spring slowly unfurl from winter.
To find details of Snowdrop Festival gardens opening near you go to http://www.ngs.org.uk/gardens/snowdrop-festival-2016.aspx#resultsbookmark
----------------------------------------------------------------------- February Meeting Posted - January 28th, 2016
Speaker ~ Sarah Sawyer
Wednesday 10th February 2016
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
Sarah is coming to tell us about the projects she is involved with in the Wye Valley. Sarah also formerly worked at Kew Gardens, so please have your questions ready! *Newsflash To see a review of this meeting please visit our reviews page -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ruspidge Gardening Club would like to wish all our members and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December Meeting Posted - December 1st, 2015 Practical Social Evening Make a Christmas Wreath or Table Decoration
Wednesday 9th December 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle
Refreshments ~ Mulled Wine or Warm Spiced Apple Juice and Mince Pies
Christmas Wreath £2 or Table Dec £1 Bring your own greenery Come along for a Christmas get together!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- November Meeting Posted - October 25th, 2015 Social Evening Foody Social Evening with Chutneys, Preserves, Apples, etc and a Quiz
Wednesday 11th November 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments Please bring in any nibbles you like, bread, preserves, apple cake, etc. Auction of any spares.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- October Meeting Posted - September 20th, 2015 Speaker ~ William Scott 'Restoration of a Walled Garden'
Wednesday 14th October 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, and Refreshments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- September Meeting Posted - September 4th, 2015 Speaker ~ Adrian James 'Hidden Gardens of Cornwall'
Wednesday 9th September 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Soudley Flower and Produce Show Posted - August 5th, 2015 Sunday 30th August 2015
Entries can be booked in from 9.30-11.30am Entry to public at 2.15pm
Soudley Village Hall http://www.soudleyflowershow.ukgardeners.com
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----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- March Meeting Posted - February 28th, 2015 Speaker ~ Andy Pedricks 'Hands on Propagation'
Wednesday 11th March 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skittles Posted - February 15th, 2015 Skittles Saturday 28th February 2015 7.00-7.30pm start at the White Horse, Soudley
Food available at £5 per head: Scampi and Chips or Sausage and Chips
(Money in advance and non returnable) Payable to Steve Frost by Saturday 21st Feb (see contacts page)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- February Meeting Posted - January 24th, 2015 Speaker ~ Belinda Legge 'A Gardener View of Australia'
Wednesday 11th February 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
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Ruspidge Gardening Club would like to wish all our members and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December Meeting Posted - December 1st, 2014
Christmas Quiz & Social Evening
Wednesday 10th December 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Mulled Wine & Mince Pies
After something a bit different last year, a return to our much enjoyed Christmas quiz hosted by Woody, and with homemade mulled wine provided by Pete. How could you refuse!?
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dean Meadows Group Posted - October 13th, 2014
Our members may remember that the club had a visit to the fantastic gardens and meadows at Flaxley last year. They are the founders of Dean Meadows Group www.deanmeadows.org.uk We have been invited by them to attend their Autumn meeting, if anyone is interested in going, here are the details: ''Our Autumn meeting will be a talk by Mike Kilner, entitled 'Creatures in the Meadow - where do they go'?'' Mike is the spider recorder for South Wales Invertebrate Group and he will talk about what happens to the meadow creatures when you can't see them. The meeting is at Westbury of Severn Parish Hall on Friday October 24th, starting at 7:30. ( Bar open from 7:00PM). The meeting is free to DMG members and £5 for non members. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Secret Forest Posted - October 13th, 2014
We were delighted to welcome Duncan and Jeannie Jackson from the Secret Forest. They came to talk to us about Permaculture principles, and the Permaculture garden that they are developing there. This talk was much enjoyed by many, and we felt very inspiring and thought provoking! Just to let all our members and anyone else interested, about the Secret Forest.
The secret Forest is only 200 yards from Clearwell Caves. It is an ancient woodland and iron age experience. Experience many acres of woodland where nature has created a mystical landscape over millions of years Ancient woodland walks, Iron age village and workings, Permaculture Garden, Educational tours, Wood sculptures, Tea room and Play area. The woodland is open between 10am and 4pm every day except Christmas Day. It is opposite Clearwell caves, near Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean. Glos GL16 8JR. 01594 832535. Website at www.secretforest.co.uk Please visit the tea room which Jeannie runs. Fresh coffee, selection of teas and snacks available. Warm and friendly service. Local crafts on show in and around the tearoom and available to buy-including, pottery, cards, handbags, rustic furniture and more. The tea room is open every weekend and bank holiday 10am-4pm For Food Foresters Duncan and Jeannie contact 01594 823004
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cheryl's yummy Apple Cake Posted - October 13th, 2014
For the recipe for Cheryl's yummy Apple Cake please see the recipes page
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- September Meeting Posted - August 29th, 2014
Cheese and Wine Evening
Wednesday 10th September 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Speaker ~ Pete Graham Winemaking
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Summer Newsletter Posted - August 23th, 2014
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- August Meeting Posted - July 25th, 2014
AGM and Fruit Punch Evening Wednesday 13th August 2014 7.30pm - 9.00pm Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
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December Meeting Posted - December 1st, 2015 Practical Social Evening Make a Christmas Wreath or Table Decoration
Wednesday 9th December 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle
Refreshments ~ Mulled Wine or Warm Spiced Apple Juice and Mince Pies
Christmas Wreath £2 or Table Dec £1 Bring your own greenery Come along for a Christmas get together!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- November Meeting Posted - October 25th, 2015 Social Evening Foody Social Evening with Chutneys, Preserves, Apples, etc and a Quiz
Wednesday 11th November 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments Please bring in any nibbles you like, bread, preserves, apple cake, etc. Auction of any spares.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- October Meeting Posted - September 20th, 2015 Speaker ~ William Scott 'Restoration of a Walled Garden'
Wednesday 14th October 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, and Refreshments
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- September Meeting Posted - September 4th, 2015 Speaker ~ Adrian James 'Hidden Gardens of Cornwall'
Wednesday 9th September 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Soudley Flower and Produce Show Posted - August 5th, 2015 Sunday 30th August 2015
Entries can be booked in from 9.30-11.30am Entry to public at 2.15pm
Soudley Village Hall http://www.soudleyflowershow.ukgardeners.com
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-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- March Meeting Posted - February 28th, 2015 Speaker ~ Andy Pedricks 'Hands on Propagation'
Wednesday 11th March 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skittles Posted - February 15th, 2015 Skittles Saturday 28th February 2015 7.00-7.30pm start at the White Horse, Soudley
Food available at £5 per head: Scampi and Chips or Sausage and Chips
(Money in advance and non returnable) Payable to Steve Frost by Saturday 21st Feb (see contacts page)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- February Meeting Posted - January 24th, 2015 Speaker ~ Belinda Legge 'A Gardener View of Australia'
Wednesday 11th February 2015
7.30pm - 9.15pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
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Ruspidge Gardening Club would like to wish all our members and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December Meeting Posted - December 1st, 2014
Christmas Quiz & Social Evening
Wednesday 10th December 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Mulled Wine & Mince Pies
After something a bit different last year, a return to our much enjoyed Christmas quiz hosted by Woody, and with homemade mulled wine provided by Pete. How could you refuse!?
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle and Refreshments
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dean Meadows Group Posted - October 13th, 2014
Our members may remember that the club had a visit to the fantastic gardens and meadows at Flaxley last year. They are the founders of Dean Meadows Group www.deanmeadows.org.uk We have been invited by them to attend their Autumn meeting, if anyone is interested in going, here are the details: ''Our Autumn meeting will be a talk by Mike Kilner, entitled 'Creatures in the Meadow - where do they go'?'' Mike is the spider recorder for South Wales Invertebrate Group and he will talk about what happens to the meadow creatures when you can't see them. The meeting is at Westbury of Severn Parish Hall on Friday October 24th, starting at 7:30. ( Bar open from 7:00PM). The meeting is free to DMG members and £5 for non members. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Secret Forest Posted - October 13th, 2014
We were delighted to welcome Duncan and Jeannie Jackson from the Secret Forest. They came to talk to us about Permaculture principles, and the Permaculture garden that they are developing there. This talk was much enjoyed by many, and we felt very inspiring and thought provoking! Just to let all our members and anyone else interested, about the Secret Forest.
The secret Forest is only 200 yards from Clearwell Caves. It is an ancient woodland and iron age experience. Experience many acres of woodland where nature has created a mystical landscape over millions of years Ancient woodland walks, Iron age village and workings, Permaculture Garden, Educational tours, Wood sculptures, Tea room and Play area. The woodland is open between 10am and 4pm every day except Christmas Day. It is opposite Clearwell caves, near Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean. Glos GL16 8JR. 01594 832535. Website at www.secretforest.co.uk Please visit the tea room which Jeannie runs. Fresh coffee, selection of teas and snacks available. Warm and friendly service. Local crafts on show in and around the tearoom and available to buy-including, pottery, cards, handbags, rustic furniture and more. The tea room is open every weekend and bank holiday 10am-4pm For Food Foresters Duncan and Jeannie contact 01594 823004
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cheryl's yummy Apple Cake Posted - October 13th, 2014
For the recipe for Cheryl's yummy Apple Cake please see the recipes page
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- September Meeting Posted - August 29th, 2014
Cheese and Wine Evening
Wednesday 10th September 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Speaker ~ Pete Graham Winemaking
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Summer Newsletter Posted - August 23th, 2014
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- August Meeting Posted - July 25th, 2014
AGM and Fruit Punch Evening Wednesday 13th August 2014 7.30pm - 9.00pm Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Raffle, Cake and Refreshments
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Scented Plants & Spring Colour
News about a website and plant shop entirely dedicated to scented and butterfly plants. People often think about the colour and size of plants in their garden. Sometimes fragrance is overlooked or just an added bonus. Beautiful scents can really make a garden extra special, and bring back unique memories. They are also hugely beneficial by drawing in butterflies and bees and other valuable insects into your garden. This site has done all the searching for you and with their affiliate supplier you can buy these plants and add them to your own garden. So for scented shrubs, scented climbers, scented roses, scented flowers, scented foliage, herbs have a look at ~
May Meeting
Posted - April 28th, 2014
Speaker ~ Gail Plant
'The Scented Garden Year'
Wednesday 14th May 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Gail Plant of Mrs Plant's Herbs in Much Marcle, a sensory, scented, and bee friendly garden designer and plantswoman.
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Posted - April 28th, 2014
Elkstone Garden Commitee would very much like a mention.
'Our open day is held annually and it is really good value for money as it is only £4.00 entry and children go free.
This Open Day not only allows you to amble through twelve private gardens but offers a unique opportunity to savour this very special Cotswold Village in a way not normally acccessible to the casual visitor.
In addition to seeing and enjoying the gardens you can visit our Grade 1 listed Norman Church made extra special on the day with glorious flower displays, you can hear the bells and visit the bell tower, enjoy tractor rides through the surrounding countryside, relax with cream teas, homemade cakes or ice creams and visit stalls to take back a reminder of a special day.
All proceeds go to the upkeep of the village hall and the church.'
More details are on our website. Elkstone Village.com
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Banana Bread
Posted - April 21st, 2014
For Sarah's amazingly popular Banana Bread please see the recipes page under cake! Recipes
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Spring Newsletter
Posted - April 9th, 2014
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The Brooks - Open Garden days
Posted - April 9th, 2014
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North Staffordshire Hostas
Posted - April 9th, 2014
We have received an email from Robert Barlow of North Staffordshire Hostas introducing themselves, a small family business specialising in the growing and selling of Hostas.
They currently have over 250 varieties in their collection, many of which are available for purchase. A catalogue detailing the varieties available in their collection can be viewed or downloaded from the website at www.northstaffordshirehostas.co.uk
They offer a postal service to customers.
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April Meeting
Posted - March, 25th, 2014
Speaker ~ John Fitzpatrick
'Alpines'
Wednesday 9th April 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
John is the editor of The Alpine Gardener, the journal of the Alpine Garden Society. At the Chelsea Flower Show last year he was a member of the team that built a garden for the AGS, for which they won a Gold Medal. He also helped to build a Gold medal-winning garden at Chelsea in 2011. John is also a professional gardener, having trained at Pershore College, and works in a few large private gardens in the Monmouth area.
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March Meeting
Posted - February 27th, 2014
Speaker ~ Dr Keith Ferguson
Wednesday 12th March 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
'Growing and Storing Vegetables'
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February Meeting
Posted - January 12th, 2014
Speaker ~ Bob Train
Wednesday 12th February 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
'Learn how to get more from your camera'
Bob has 30 years of award winning experience and will share with us how to:
Photograph your garden
Capture special moments easily
Compose stunning shots with confidence
Understand your camera programes.
So bring along your camera for advice from Bob. You might find a feature you didn't know about!
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New Year Newsletter
Posted - January 9th, 2014
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January Meeting
Posted - January 2nd, 2014
January Social Evening
Wednesday 8th January 2014
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Please come along and join us for a New Year get together and catch up. We will be having a Soup and Roll supper and Quiz specially devised for us by our member and plant knowledge expert Judy!
Also something new a small 'Bring and Buy Sale.
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Ruspidge Gardening Club
would like to wish all our members and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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Other events
Posted - November 21th, 2013
Keep an eye on the events page for any updates.
New:
*A trip to Colesbourne Park to see the snowdrops, 16th February 2014 (Sunday)
*Bring and buy sale at our January meeting. Please consider donating any unwanted Christmas presents or homemade items!
*February meeting updated
Events (click)
*Also have a look at the competitions page for our new system of scoring entries, and upcoming competition categories. Competitions (click)
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December Meeting
Posted - November 15th, 2013
Wreath making demonstration with Sadie Kilby
Wednesday 11th December 2013
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Sadie will be coming to demonstrate how to make a Christmas wreath.
Come along have a go at making your own wreath, and then why not enter it in to the competition before you take it home? Please bring some greenery for making your wreath if possible, or anything you would like to decorate it with.
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Competition results
Posted - November 15th, 2013
November 2013
Category 1 ~ 3 apples or 3 pears Category 2 ~ group of autumn or evergren leaves
1st place - Judy Young 1st place - Janet Willett
2nd place - Pete & Sally Graham 2nd place - Judy Young
3rd place - Janet Willett 3rd place - Lisa Woodward
3rd place - Pete & Sally Graham
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November Meeting
Posted - October 16th, 2013
Severn Cider
Wednesday 13th November 2013
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
All non-members and newcomers most welcome
Severn Cider of Awre are coming to give us a talk about the process of cider making with samples and recipe ideas for using apples and cider in cooking.
Apple themed food evening
Please bring along your favourite apple dish to share
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Competition results
Posted - October 14th, 2013
October 2013
Category 1 ~ a pumpkin or squash Category 2 ~ a spray of berries
1st place - Lisa Woodward 1st place - Judy Young
2nd place - Pete & Sally Graham 2nd place - Lisa Woodward
3rd place - Judy Young 3rd place - Janet Willett
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Autumn Newsletter
Posted - October 9th, 2013
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October meeting
Posted - September 16th, 2013
Wednesday 9th October 2013
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Speaker ~ Fiona Warin 'Lost the Plot'
We're really looking forward to our Speaker in October,
please come and join us
All members, non members and newcomers most welcome
A quote from another group
'The undoubted highlight of the evening was a unique presentation from Fiona Warin, the Allotment Officer for Cheltenham District Council. Her talk gave a comprehensive insight into the history and development of community allotments. A very unusual topic entitled 'Lost the Plot' was entertaining, informative, educational and very funny.'
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September meeting
Posted - September 9th, 2013
September Social Evening
11th September 2013
7.30pm - 9.00pm
Ruspidge Memorial Hall
Membership Renewals
Bulb sales ~ Early Crocus & Minature Narcissii
Bring a photo of your garden (optional)
Bring in anything you have grown for a Mini harvest celebration
Buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win a years membership for free!
All non members and newcomers welcome
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August meeting
Posted - July 30th, 2013
A.G.M and Pimms Evening
Wednesday 14th August 2013
7.30 pm to 9.00 pm
RUSPIDGE MEMORIAL HALL
Cake, Raffle, Nibbles
All members and newcomers welcome
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July newsletter
Posted - July 11th, 2013
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July Meeting
Posted - June 15th, 2013
Please come and join us for our July meeting
Speaker ~
Paul Green
Paul has a specialist plant nursery in Newent
and will give advice on grouping plants to get
the best effects.
Meeting extended to 9.30pm
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The Meeting House
Posted - June 15th, 2013
Orchids, buttercups and raindrops!
The weather was very unkind, but the meadows were amazing. The gardens were beautiful and the vegetables were huge!
The Meeting House, near Flaxley, well worth a visit.
Owners also founded ~
Dean Meadows Group
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June Garden Visit
Posted - May 8th, 2013
For our June meeting on Wednesday 12th June 2013, instead of a speaker at the hall we are going out for a garden visit!
The Meeting House, Flaxley, newly open with the NGS, is a cottage with 2 acres developed by owners over the last 18yrs. Hedges, lawns, herbaceous borders, organic fruit trees, soft fruit and vegetables, greenhouse, orchard with wild flowers, reed bed sewage system and Japanese Shingon Buddhist dojo. Also open, are the surrounding 17 acres of wild flower meadows, old and new orchards and ponds, managed for conservation.
The Meeting House, New Road, Flaxley, Newnham GL14 1JS. The tour starts at 7pm, but we are meeting at Ruspidge Hall at 6.30pm to arrange car sharing to the garden. The cost is £4 per person, (total cost £5 but £1 each covered by the club). Please note, there will be no refreshments available at the garden.
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Bulbs at Ruspidge Park
Posted - April 22nd, 2013
Our new bulbs at the park are flowering and don't they look lovely.
If anyone else has pictures please email them to us!
(Bulb planting at Ruspidge Park)
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Skittles
Posted - April 22nd, 2013
We had a great turnout at our Skittles evening and hope that everyone enjoyed themselves. Everyone gave it their best shot including Sarah who brought new meaning to the game 'Killer' when she nearly gained an extra 'life' by taking out Pete and the other members of his table with her first throw!
It was really great to meet some of the Soudley Flower Show gang, thank you for coming.
Also thanks to the White Horse, Soudley for having us and providing the nosh (ploughmans, right).
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May meeting
Posted - April 10th, 2013
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April newsletter
Posted - April 10th, 2013
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Skittles
Posted - March 21st, 2013
Skittles Night now rescheduled for April 20th, 2013
The White Horse, Soudley, 7pm
Buffet £5
Please come and join us for this social occasion!
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April meeting
Posted - March 14th, 2013
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March meeting
Posted - February 14th, 2013
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February meeting
Posted - February 9th, 2013
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Posted - January 18th, 2013