GARDENING CLUB: The chairman, Ann Wall, welcomed members and reminded everyone that the summer show on Saturday, August 31, was only just a week away and she encouraged everyone to search their gardens for exhibits. She then introduced Miss Brenda Jones, who had brought with her lots of summer perennials, cut from her own herbaceous borders to show during her talk on Scent and Colour in the Garden.

Scent depends a great deal on preference as not everyone appreciates the same scents. Roses, especially the old English ones, sweet peas, phlox, honeysuckle and flowering herbs such as the thymes, English lavender, marjoram and lemon balm all have fragrance. Brenda grows herbs on paths so that their scent is released as they are walked on.

The second half of the talk was on colour as well as fragrance in the garden. The flowers shown were of dark, vibrant colours and included crocosmia, lilies, buddleia and many dahlias, including a memorable one looking like dark rich purple velvet. Brenda, who flower arranges in Gloucester Cathedral, gave tips on arranging, and recommended using grey leafed plants for contrast.

The monthly plant stall was well stocked with plants at bargain prices. Audrey Whitfield won the competition for the most fragrant rose from 11 entries. Outings are planned to Witley Court in September, and to Bourton House in October.