FOR our September meeting we welcomed Ann Willetts an area demonstrator from South Wales.

Ann who is also a N.A.F.A.S. competition Judge, has a long history of working in the Florist Industry.

36 years ago she set up, and still runs her own Florist Shop on the farm where she lives.

Her creative skills were evident in the clever use of unusual home-made containers and her imaginative use of flowers, in her stunning displays.

Her first arrangement was a naturalistic design of sedum, Christmas roses, hosta leaves, orange calthamus, dried poppy heads and orange gerberas, an arrangement suitable for the coffee table.

Pink edged formium leaves arranged in a base made from plastic tubes complimented with pink roses,amaranthus and sea holly made a dramatic second arrangement.

Ann used a traditional basket for her third demonstration of pittosporum peach carnations, skimmia and lizianthus.

She then used fatsia leaves, and drecinia on a frame of lucky bamboo to create a striking modern design.

Her fifth and final arrangement was a truly amazing hat design.

On a home made wire frame Ann arranged calla lilies and phormium leaves to which she attached buttons to compliment an outfit for mother of the bride or a posh garden party.

This completed a truly stunning and inspiring demonstration.

Competition winners were:- Elaine Bushby - won the Validity Plate with Mary Oakey coming second.

Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 1 at 7-30pm in Nailsworth Town Hall.

Visitors are always welcome.

Tickets for the Christmas Open Evening at Wycliffe College on Friday, December 12 are now available at a cost of £10.