The church bells were ringing as people made their way to the Recreation Ground on the morning of the 114th Annual Flower Show – either to enter their exhibits or to set up their stall. The sun was shining, the temperature was in the 80s and Badsey was in festive mood.
The beautiful day encouraged people from far and wide to visit the Show. The Badsey Society had been given a prime location opposite the main arena and close to the marquee. We had a steady stream of visitors all afternoon. In particular, we welcomed out-of-town members, Mr & Mrs Bruce Jones of Mutford in Suffolk, who regularly return to the area at Flower Show time. Bruce, together with his brother, Barry, who is also an out-of-town member and lives in Sussex, grew up at Malvern House, Badsey. Both left the village many years ago but like to keep in touch with what is going on and are always keen to hear of our latest research. Bruce wondered whether he was the member who lives furthest away from Badsey. But no, he’s not! In the UK, we have a member who lives in Helston, Cornwall, and overseas, we have three who live in America.
Other visitors included Wendy Beasley and Jane Foxall (née Holley) who were interested in the Sladden family displays. As a teenager, Wendy used to work for the Misses Sladden at Seward House, and Jane’s grandfather, Fred Holley, worked as gardener for the Sladdens for many years.
We welcomed a few new members who signed up on the day and look forward to them joining us at our future events.
Photos: Peter Stewart; Paul Spinks
