We had a fantastic day with Michael Bowyer guiding us through the opportunities which NAFAS offers us for training to be Judges, Demonstrators, Teachers and Speakers. 32 members attended and everyone entered into the exercises. We saw the talent of our members in their floral arrangements just using 5 flowers. We learned what the judges are looking for and impressed with our plant identification knowledge. We were very thankful to the 3 members who gave us terrific “of the cuff” demonstrations. The JDE&S committee were thrilled that a number of members indicated their interest in going on to do further training.

These pictures show the members designs, members judging exhibits and the 3 demonstration pieces.

Yesterday morning we were welcomed to our Annual General Meeting by these delightful Autumn arrangements.

During the AGM we were given lots of information regarding the activities of our Area and also the financial situation for the coming year. 

This day also saw the retirement as Area President of Irene Hickson. Irene has done 3 years as President due to the Covid Pandemic. We all wish to thank her for the support she has given to the Area during this time, Sylvia Preston, Area Chairman presented the Presidents badge to Carrie Diamond who will be the President, for the next 2 years.

After a tasty lunch we all relaxed for the amazing demonstration by National Demonstrator Vanessa Wellock. Here’s a taster of what we saw.