STUART Gregory opened the meeting in the absence of the Chairman.

Details of the proposed holiday for 2016 to Southsea were announced by Betty Clark, more information on this subject will be published later.

The guest speaker for the evening was Paul Green who was surrounded by a lovely kaleidoscope of colours from the foliage of the many plants he had brought along, including many plants with quirky stems, his talk was named “Plants for Autumn and Winter Interest”.

Paul co-runs with his wife a specialist nursery called “Green Leaves”, unfortunately they are not open to the public but sell their plants through Plant Fairs and shows.

He has a liking for dark leaved plants which has remained with him since his training at Pershore College.

He entertained with anecdotes and showing ideas and combinations including Corokia commonly known as the Wire Netting Bush – a mass of twisted stems.

Hints and tips were given on hard pruning so as to attain a more showy plant, his last important tip was if we really need to use slug pellets, then use ferric phosphate pellets as they do not contain metaldehyde, he said that he was surprised that this chemical has not been banned!

Betty gave a vote of thanks to Paul, followed by the opportunity to purchase plants.

The raffle was drawn and won by Des Luckman and Pat Muncaster.

Refreshments were served by Beryl Neale and Margaret Wheatley.

The next meeting will be the AGM where members have the opportunity to vote for or change in the committee or make changes to the way the club is run, - all jobs are on offer, just inform any member of the present Committee before the meeting takes place on Tuesday, October 13.