Bridport & District Gardening Club held its first AGM since the start of the pandemic two years ago - and there was praise for the president and a call for support to keep the club thriving.

The meeting was well attended with several new members present and the main business was to emphasise the need to build up the committee and support volunteers so that the club can continue to provide the shows, outings and talks that people enjoy.

President Monique Pasche passionately summarised how the club had a key role to play in interacting with the community of Bridport.

She cited examples of the club’s local initiatives including caring for planters in the town centre. There was a strong emphasis on the need for club members to rally round and to volunteer to join or assist the committee in keeping the club relevant, alive, and thriving.

There were reports from the Honorary Treasurer, the Membership Secretary, the Honorary Secretary as well as summaries of the shows, outings and monthly meetings.

Thanks were given to members who had helped the club through the difficult times. The club's website and Zoom meetings had provided a welcome online presence when the club had not been able to gather and meet.

During the past two years the club has donated to local charities including the Living Tree, Friends of the Millennium Green, and the participation in the Christmas Tree festival at the United Church Hall raised £60 for gardeners’ charity Perennial.

A bouquet of flowers was presented to the president Monique Pasche at the AGM. The club said Monique has 'supported, encouraged and sustained the club over many years and continues to show a passion and energy that is an example to us all'.

* The Bridport & District Gardening Club Show is back and will be held on Saturday, April 9at the United Church Hall. The show is open to all and there are flower, vegetable, handicraft and cooking classes. There are also classes for children. Refreshments will be available and the plant sale this year is in aid of Weldmar Hospice. Schedules can be obtained from Monique on 01308 301272 or online at bridportgardeningclub.co.uk

The show is open to view the exhibits from noon.