AT the first meeting of 2018 for Cheriton Fitzpaine Garden Club, Andrew Dean took over as Chairman, Maggie Sluman continues as secretary and Dee Marshall (of Stockleigh English) relieved David Nunn of treasurer duties.

Subscriptions of £12 were taken and schedules for the Spring Exhibition on March 24 and Summer Show on August 18 were handed out.

David Nunn had produced a photo-quiz of gardens which the club had visited, and there was a low buzz of anguished conversation as teams tried to rack their brains for the answers.

This was followed by our customary February ritual of choosing the most “wicked” pudding from the groaning tables. An “At Cost” bar helped people socialise.

Our next meeting will be on Thursday, March 15 at 7.30pm, when Dave Packham will be talking about “Gardening for Bees” in the Parish Hall. Visitors are always welcome.

In preparation for the Spring Show, Mary Nunn and friends will be holding an event in the Methodist Hall to advise and assist children or adults who would like to enter.

Some containers and foliage will be provided.