Following the Gardening Club’s enjoyable visit to the garden of Graham and Sandra Rice in Leamington Hastings, Sandra has kindly supplied information on the historic trees and grounds of Bitham Hall. To learn more visit the local history pages.

In spite of the heavy rain which brought the event to a premature end, the total raised by the Soap Box Derby was £3750.00. When expenses for food and drink and printing etc. are subtracted the amount available for donation is £2000.00 to BLESMA and £500.00 to McMillan Cancer Support.

Well done to everyone involved!

In spite of the appalling weather, and having to abandon the races on safety grounds, Avon Dassett Soapbox Derby raised around £3000 for BLESMA and Macmillan Nurses the supported charities.

Many thanks to Colin Smith and Graeme Miller who worked tirelessly to organise this year’s event.

See this report from the Lentus team for information on the challenging conditions.

In spite of a dramatic electrical storm in the middle afternoon, a power failure at the teas, and a blocked toilet causing a minor flood, Avon Dassett Open Gardens was a resounding success with everyone showing true Dunkirk spirit and carrying on!

A total of 10 village gardens were open, there was a sale of gardening books, plants and tombola in the Reading Room, and St John’s Church was open for visitors. There was also a Plant Stall at Hill Top Farm, and Teas were served at Old Mill Cottage. Despite the heavy showers mid afternoon, there was a good turn out of visitors, up 50% on 2014.

Money raised for the National Gardens Scheme group of Charities was as follows:-

212 Admissions @ £5……………£1,060.00
Teas………………………………………£456.00
Reading Room tombola etc………..£84.24
Share of Plant Sales…………………..£20.00
Donation……………………………………£5.00

Total Raised for NGS……………..£1,625.24
Well done to everyone concerned.