A sad message, a certificate and gardening memories

At the end of last year, via our website, MHS received the following message:

‘My father Dennis Sims was once Treasurer of the Marden Horticultural Society. He recently passed away and I have been sorting out his papers and found the certificate of affiliation for the society (to the Royal Horticultural Society) from 1967. I would be happy to send it to you if you would like the document for your archive.

Although we left Marden almost 18 years ago, there may still be a few people who remember Dad, as he was very active in the society and in other groups such as short mat bowls.  My mum Jean, who is now 93, was also a member and was active in the WI.  We have very fond memories of Marden with its vibrant and active community groups and I am glad to hear that the Horticultural Society is still going strong ’. Gill Holt

Not only did Gill send us the Certificate, but also some photographs and two programmes from the 1988 and 1989. Having experienced Storms Dudley, Eunice and Franklin so far this year, it is interesting to read the 1988 foreword and look back to other stormy times. This was written by President Ron Apps ‘As I sit preparing this foreword my reflections go back through the year, recalling the severe winter weather, the wet summer and the recent autumn Hurricane. I console myself that 1988 could hardly be worse.’

The programme for 1988 had talks on ‘Pot Pourri of Slides’, ‘Fuchsia and Dahlia Propagation’, Pest Control’ and one by Mr Bob Collard, Radio Kent’s Gardening expert. There were 2 Buffet Suppers and a staggering amount of shows throughout the year, with points out of 10 awarded for entries. These included monthly shows (not more than 3 entries per member per month) as well as a Spring Show (MHS Challenge Bowl awarded for the most points), a Summer Show (The William Day Challenge Cup for the most points) and an Autumn Show (RW Price Cup awarded for the most points).

Take a look at what the Autumn show alone involved…

The competitor who gained the most points throughout the whole year would be awarded the President’s Challenge Cup. Now that was serious gardening!