19 June 2023 - Wow - what a day!
Did I threaten another Newsbite - to thank all the people involved in the amazing Open Gardens event? Of course I did! You can't escape - read on...
The organisers, led by Hilary Davidson, are thrilled to announce the incredible result of £4075, which will be divided equally between the vital causes of Cancer Research UK and Dementia UK.
She says:
"We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed - and just mention that it is still possible to add a donation to this remarkable total!
"In addition to expressing our thanks, we would like to highlight some outstanding individuals and groups who have played a significant role in making this event a success:
"The gardeners deserve special recognition for creating such a diverse and stunning array of gardens, which garnered numerous compliments from visitors. The owners' warm and friendly demeanour, and the welcoming atmosphere around the village also contributed to the overall positive experience. [Ed: I think I can confidently say that our house prices just leapt a good 10%.]
"We would like to extend our appreciation to Mike Haine for designing the highly professional, informative and much-admired programmes. Thanks also to The Springhead Pub for generously sponsoring all the publicity for this event.
"The dedication and hard work of the caterers, led by Caroline Crisp, Sue Smith and Shirley Davies who tirelessly provided their services, are also deserving of recognition.
"Since we're talking about tireless dedication, it would be dreadful to overlook John Bellis who sat taking money and operating the contactless payment machine from start to finish on both days.
"Furthermore, we extend our thanks to Jackie Greet and Sue Locke for their efforts in organizing the delightful plant stall.
"Also to Roger Greet and his team of car parking helpers. The first cars were here not much after 11am and the last didn't leave until well after we'd all retired exhausted.
"A tremendous thank you goes to Jon Waterman and Jane Young, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes for months to ensure the resounding success of this weekend. Their commitment and hard work have been truly invaluable. Jane looked after Publicity and it was a pleasant surprise to hear Alan Titchmarsh announce our event on his Classic FM radio show on Saturday morning. Visitors certainly came from far and wide!
"Finally we are immensely grateful to everyone involved, as each contribution has made a significant difference. Together, we have achieved something truly special, and we invite you to continue supporting Open Gardens in a future year.
Hilary is too modest to thank herself but without her unstinting efforts for the last two years we would not have been nagged into action with such a great result. Is it too late to get her on you-know-who's honours list?
J & S