Botley in Bloom - 2019
PRESENTATION EVENING 3 OCTOBER - SUMMER GARDENING COMPETITION 2019
Our very enjoyable Presentation Evening was held at the Masonic Centre, Brook Lane, inviting all those who entered our Gardening Competition this year, plus specially invited guests and the Mayor of Eastleigh, Cllr. Darshan Mann.
The perpetual Trophies were presented to Winners of each category by the Mayor, plus a unique, hand-made pottery plaque, by Sandie Dixon. Runners up receiving a special Botley in Bloom Certificate.
Our two Speakers, Jo Pike, manager of YMCA, Fairthorne Manor and Marco Bartolini, Director of Arbor-Eco Tree Consultancy kept our audience entertained by giving very enthusiastic and knowledgeable presentations. The Evening concluded with a raffle and a delicious buffet provided by Mark of the Masonic Centre.
The Evening would not be possible without assistance, as Botley in Bloom endeavours to be financially self-supporting. This year we have received a grant from Eastleigh Borough Council. Engraving of trophies is funded by Hamble Valley Motors and Clarke Mews Estate Agents make a donation towards buffet costs, plus printing of Entry Forms. We are also very grateful for donations of raffle prizes by local businesses, with the raffle proceeds cover room hire. Also a special mention to all our Gardening Judges, Kevin Clare - Hambrooks, Duncan Latter - Jobs Cottage Nursery, Darren South - ex Arturi Garden Centre and David Bastable, Snr Groundsman, Botley Parish Council, who really enjoy visiting entrants' gardens and,offering advice when asked.
However, the most important ingredient for the evening is Botley people. This event would not be possible without its Gardening Entrants. As always mentioned, you don't have to be a gardening expert, just someone who loves to make Botley in Bloom! Supporting the community is the main purpose of our Group and we know this works, as many of the attendees on the Evening say it's great to chat to like-minded people and exchange ideas.
So, if you want to be included in the above photo, it's quite simple - you just have to enter in June 2020.
Botley in Bloom Group