CHAIRMAN of Cheriton Fitzpaine Garden Club, Andrew Dean, had made a great effort to make our April meeting a suitable celebration of the long-awaited Spring, with small tables dotting the room, and a bar in full swing!

Our Speaker was Steve Adams, accompanied by his wife. Steve brought a Powerpoint presentation, describing the difficulties encountered in getting planning permission for re-modelling and modernisation of Crediton Garden Centre, now owned by Homeleigh. Several re-vamped plans were submitted, and a raft of 22 surveys and reports were drawn up to support the Application, which has now been approved.

Steve emphasised that this will be a Garden Centre, and not a Nursery, but that wherever possible, plants and shrubs will be sourced locally.

There were many questions, and during coffee, members were able to gather around the model and imagine the completed project.

Our next meeting, on Thursday, May 16 at 7.30pm, will take the form of a Workshop run by Sue Tucker, when we shall learn how to make Hand-Tied Bouquets.

Members will pay £5 for materials and non-members £7.50. Booking is essential - telephone Andrew on 01363 866976.

Mary Nunn