A 2022 survey reported that around 27 million UK residents named gardening as a hobby, and approximately 144,000 work as professional gardeners. Gardening isn’t only pleasurable, but also good for physical and mental health. It builds muscle strength, can boost immunity and protect memory. Simply visiting and walking through gardens can have similar benefits.
At this time of the year, after ensuring that their plot has been ‘put to bed’ by early December, gardeners look forward to settling into their most comfortable chair, hot drink to hand, and indulging in the luxury of ‘armchair gardening’, poring over plant catalogues and happily dreaming of the spectacular growing season to come.
However, on Thursday 29th February, members of the Rotherham u3a (Ru3a) Garden / Out and About group will go one step further, vacating their favourite armchairs and gathering at Winthrop Gardens, Wickersley S66 1EE at 10.00am to enjoy an illustrated talk entitled ‘Calendar of Colour’, delivered by gardening expert Don Witton. His informative, enthusiastic and entertaining talks are legendary, presenting a kaleidoscopic array of plants covering all colours of the rainbow. A great antidote to the dark, winter months. Why not go along to meet Don and the group? There’s a small entry charge which includes refreshments.
As its name suggests, ‘Garden / Out and About’ members also enjoy a programme of spring, summer and autumn visits to stately houses, gardens, waterways and other beautiful and interesting places. To join the group and / or receive further details of its activities, contact Lesley Clark on lclarke62@hotmail.com or the Membership Secretary on 01709 379379.
For information about all 35+ Ru3a activities, visit www.u3asites.org.uk/rotherham or call Sue Cable on 01709 379379.