Members of Sutton cum Lound and Barnby Moor Gardening Club, along with some of the local community, recently enjoyed a coach trip to RHS Harlow Carr. After a cloudy start, the weather stayed fine, and many plants made their way home with happy gardeners.
September’s talk, Orchids – How to Make Them Blooming Flower, was given by Ray Creek, who offered an excellent and informative presentation on orchid care, dispelling many common myths. Members also had the opportunity to buy orchid compost and feed.
In October, the club welcomed Janice Bradley MBE, Head of Nature Recovery (North) at Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, based at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre. Her talk, Return of the Beavers, explored both local and national reintroduction projects, highlighting the important role played by the Idle Valley nature reserve in contributing to national scientific research.
The November meeting featured All About Chocolate, a talk by Alan Dickson about cocoa pods, their growth, and the production of chocolate – with plenty of treats to buy at the end! In December, the club will contribute to the Sutton cum Lound Christmas Tree Festival at St Bartholomew’s Church (13th to 14th December) and celebrate with a Christmas meal for members in the village hall. The 2026 list of speakers will be published on the village website and displayed on noticeboards around Retford.
The Gardening Club meets on the second Thursday of each month at Sutton cum Lound Village Hall, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. New members are always welcome, as are children accompanied by an adult. Annual membership is £20.00 (April to March) or £2.50 for guests on the night, including refreshments and biscuits (please bring your own mug).
For more information, email gardeningclub@suttoncumlound.net.