Archive News 2023
News from the 63rd BB&O AGM – 20th October 2023
The Area AGM this year was held in October before the clocks changed to allow members to safely travel home in daylight. This seemed to work well so is likely to continue in the future. The meeting was efficiently run by Area President Alison Mount. On behalf of all area members Alison expressed gratitude to outgoing Area Chairman Jane Haas who, despite her husband’s illness and the fact they now live in Devon. had stayed in post for a fourth year following Maureen Preston’s illness. So Alison was pleased to award the Penelope Everett Member of the Year Trophy to Jane. Other area trophies were awarded as follows:
- The HEATHER BARBER ROSE BOWL for the club which donated the most money to charity was awarded to Aylesbury for raising £1661.14. The award was collected by Val Truby who does so much to raise money for charities in Aylesbury.
- The FLOWER ARRANGER PLATTER for the Club Flower Arranger Rep who has been most successful in increasing the number of orders in 2023 was awarded to Bladon and Woodstock.
- The DIANE GILL GLASS PLATE for the most innovative design was awarded to two designs: ‘On the Shoulders of Giants’ area design at the national show in Gloucester by Sandie Draper, Fiona Blacklock and Kim Wright; and ‘Pampas Party’ at the Royal Windsor Rose Show by Angela Edmonds.
- The CHAIRMAN’S CHOICE award went to Caroline Golding in recognition of the talents she has contributed to the area.
Area reports had been sent out in advance and the online voting form had been completed by 29 (out of a possible 36) clubs. Short updates to the reports were given.
Jackie Page was appointed Area Chairman, but there had been no nominations for the post of Area Vice-Chairman. There had also been no nominations for Area Treasurer and Area Media Officer, but Alison Vacher and Shirley Sexton have agreed to stay in post for the time being, but everyone was warned that unless these posts are filled soon then the area is in severe danger of closing. Brenda Milton, Sheila Williams and Irene Richards have stayed in post as area secretary, area JDSE Officer and Area Trading Officer respectively.
After the meetings many people enjoyed a tasty two course lunch, which was then followed by an entertaining demonstration and presentation entitled ‘Flowers in a Vase’ by Jane Haas and Irene Manson.
Area Workshops
Bookings may now be made for the following area workshops:
- Many people were disappointed that they could not make last year’s Holly Berry workshop so the JDSE committee have arranged a similar workshop – but this time to create Halloween Spell Berry. The workshop will be led by Area Teacher CAROLINE GOLDING at St John’s Church Cottage, Church Road, Woodley RG5 4QN on Monday 30th October, 11am to 4pm. Cost of the workshop, including some of the materials, is £25. Tea/coffee will be provided but please bring your own lunch. To book click on 2023 Spell Berry Workshop Booking Form
- Christmas wreath workshop – 7.30-9.30pm Wed 29th November at Amersham & Chiltern Rugby Club, Ash Grove, Weldon Lane, Amersham HP6 5QU. The workshop will be led by National Teacher JACKIE PAGE. Cost of the workshop, including all materials plus a glass of mulled wine and mince pies, is £35. To book click on 2023 Christmas Wreath Workshop Booking Form
Recent Events
Click on Gardens Tour Report for feedback on ‘Delights of Derbyshire‘ area trip 18-21 May 2023.