John's Garden

A neighbour kindly offered to take me to Ashwood Nurseries for the July John's Garden Open Day. There is one of these each month during the summer months, and although there is an entry fee all the proceeds go to the chosen charity of the year. I've been there for the last 2 years (how I wish I had discovered it before that), but it's always worth another visit, especially as they introduce changes to the garden every year. Happily, although some light rain was forecast, we had lots of sun and it was quite hot, at least while I was there - of course the strong sun was not the best of news for photography as it created real 'soot and whitewash' conditions, and I had a camera not noted for its dynamic range (but particularly light and compact, which, as there was some walking to do, was a serious consideration).

Apart from the garden itself, there were several other activities going on, the most notable (while I was there) was a performance by the Gentleman Songsters Male Voice Choir ( local, Black Country group), very enjoyable. If you happen to object to the idea of an 'all-male' group, please note that one of the extra photo shows that they have a female Musical Director. The group is about 70 strong, so not all of them were at this event. Although most of the singers were probably over 40, the accompanist, Phil James, is a great deal younger, as another extra shows - in fact he has just got a First Class Honours degree, and an appointment in the musical department of the RSC, in the last 2 months!

To celebrate the fact that John (Massey) had achieved a Gold at the Chelsea Flower Show this year for his hepaticas, the Gentleman Songsters not only presented him with a tribute, but also sung one especially composed for the event (sung to the Eric Coates Dam Busters music). I've also included a photo of John with his tribute.

A really great day, spent in the company of four lovely and entertaining ladies!; I'm 70, and second oldest of that group by some margin over the youngsters, but the 84 year old was much more nimble and healthy than me!

I have absolutely no vested interests, but a visit to an Open Day, other special events or just to look around the nurseries is well worth it if you live within range. They also have an excellent restaurant/cafe - indeed it is quite difficult to get in it as companies and groups organise coach trips there.