The working group have drawn up a list of events for 2016. At our recent meeting Colin Plumbe stood down both as chairman and a member of the working group. Colin was the driving force behind the setting up of the Gardener's Forum in 2009 and as a result of his hard work it has been a great success and continues to attract new members. We shall miss his contribution. Sandra Knox has also retired from the working group. Again, we shall miss Sandra who has been generous with her (very limited) time in support of the GF working group. Both Colin and Sandra remain members of the GF. I have agreed to take over the administration of the GF, Tom Hutchinson will chair the meetings and the working group will share the organisation of the events between them.
Events for 2016:
Further details of each event will be circulated nearer the date, but please book the following dates in your diaries as events which are not to be missed.
Saturday 27th February - Themed supper at the Forman Hall. The theme for 2016 will be Spanish food and following the success of last year's Arabian Night, it will be a bring and share event. Recipes will be available.
Sunday 6th March - Borders Organic Gardeners Potato Day at Kelso Showground. A good opportunity to purchase your seed potatoes. We shall have lunch at the Showground. Details will be circulated with the Themed Supper.
Saturday 18th June - Safari Supper - The highlight of the GF year! A visit to three gardens with a course at each. This is always a popular event and we shall all keep our fingers crossed for good weather. The date has been moved from the end of May in anticipation of this. We shall be visiting Donald & Sandra Knox at Deanburnhaugh for the starter; Colin and Tizza Plumbe at Easter House for the main course and Alan and Audrey Bone for pudding.
June - Date to be confirmed - Plant Swap. The successful plant swap will take place on a Tuesday in June to coincide with the mobile library at the Forman Hall. A chance to exchange seedlings and cuttings.
July - Date to be confirmed - Garden Visit. We shall be visiting Carolside near Earlston in July. Carolside is a gem of a garden with a walled garden full of old roses. Not to be missed. Refreshments will be available.
Saturday 3rd September - Roberton Show - The GF have a class in the vegetable section and all members are encouraged to enter.
Sunday 2nd October - Harvest Supper - This will be held in the Forman Hall and is a popular GF event open to all.
Saturday 10th December - Drinks Party - Niel and Lizzie Redpath have kindly agreed to host the 2016 event at Hawksnest.
If you would like to join the Gardener's Forum please contact me on 880653 or judith@bitstone.co.uk
Judith Hutchinson