Clubs and Groups

Pluckley Gardening Society has a very long history, as befits a local gathering of like minded people with a common interest situated in the garden of England. Records show that it 're-started' in 1951 since when it has regularly marked the passing of the seasons with events and activities for all horticultural tastes.

After an action packed year which included talks, visits to gardens and nurseries both far and near, as well as a spectacularly successful Garden Safari, 2006 started well with the annual meeting in Pluckley School. Like all garden society gatherings it combined a review of the past year and plans for the coming one and was backed up by a talk by a knowledgeable and witty speaker. Cheery social exchanges between friends and neighbours accompanied by refreshments for all tastes are an integral feature of their gatherings and that meeting was no exception. New officers were elected on to the committee and there was a musical chairs arrangement for the officers of the society so that new energies could be combined with considerable experience, some of which spans decades! The committee members for 2006 are: chairman, Pat Morss (tel 01233 840686); secretary, Sue Steward; treasurer, Julie Miller; membership secretary, Rosemary MacDonald; and show secretary, Eileen Steinbock.

The two stalwarts of the Pluckley Gardening Society are the spring and autumn shows, held in Pluckley Village Hall, when entrants of all ages have the chance to collect produce and display it to best advantage which win cash prizes which do not merit an armed escort but are nevertheless well received by the lucky recipients.

The themed floral art section does allow the use of bought flowers, but many gardens are well up to the challenge of providing colourful and interesting exhibits when combined with enthusiasm and flair. The end result is always a hall full of unique creations which draw gasps of delight from an appreciative audience. Make sure you come along to see for yourself what they do when you can be sure of a friendly welcome.

There are still lots of other events on the calendar to tickle the fancy of gardeners who range from those who are welded to their spades and till the soil to perfection to those who can see past the occasional weeds to delight in the colours and the fragrances offered up to them by the plants in their own, and other people's gardens.

Membership is £5 per family per annum and events are open to all who enjoy nature, plants, and meeting like minded people in jolly circumstances. If you want to know more, please contact the chairman or one of the committee.

more clubs and groups...