‘Autumn colour in the Garden’ was the topic for speaker Paul Cook at the September meeting.

He spoke about the various plants he had brought with him, giving his expert advice on planting, pruning and general care. He started by advising members on the best ways to eradicate slugs, which have been a big problem in this rather wet summer. In answer to members’ questions, he spoke about the different types of compost on the market nowadays, recommending what and what not to buy, as well as advice on lawn care in the autumn.

In August, several members had enjoyed an excellent visit to Highgrove, followed by an hour’s stay in Tetbury before returning home. Many thanks to Pauline Blumer for making all the arrangements.

Details were given of the Teme & Tenbury Group meeting which will be hosted by Bockleton on October 24, and final names were taken for the WFWI Annual Council meeting at the end of October.

The institute’s October meeting at Mamble Village Hall on Monday, October 8, starting at 7.30pm, will be the last of the evening meetings, as, from November to March inclusive, the meetings will be held at the village hall starting at 2pm.

Secretary Lyn Bowen will be the speaker at the November meeting, talking about family history. If members have any particular aspect of their ancestry they would like her to investigate, she is quite willing to do so, provided she does not find too many skeletons in the cupboard!