Sunday the 8th of June was the day that summer arrived in earnest bringing welcome sunshine to the eagerly awaited “Open Gardens” event.
This now traditional two yearly occasion, again organised with precision by Mr. Dick Moss and Mrs. Ruth Bilson, attracted a large attendance of garden enthusiasts, not only from the Parish, but also from surrounding communities, even from hikers passing through the village.
A circuit of 13 gardens each with light-hearted themes had been prepared with meticulous attention to the finest of floricultural detail. The justifiably-proud creators of each of the gardens on display welcomed the regular influx of admiring visitors providing each with an impressive knowledge of their magnificent arrays of plants. The floral displays within Saint Denis church attracted compliments from all beholders.
During the long and hot afternoon, visitors enjoyed a comforting rest at the village hall where the Village Trust committee under the direction of Lesley French, had assembled an enticing array of tea and cakes as well deserved refreshments. Considerable interest was aroused by a display of pictures in the hall showing Pailton in bygone years, arranged by Mr. Dennis Bilson. Visitors and residents were keenly interested to compare the present day scene with houses, shops and pubs, which dominated the village several generations ago.
As the afternoon gave way to evening, the weary visitors and exhibitors alike concluded that this had been a particularly memorable occasion providing considerable personal enjoyment together with much needed funds towards our parish church of Saint Dennis.
Villagers are now making final preparations towards the annual fete to be held on Sunday 29th June, which, it is hoped, will be blessed with the glorious weather which accompanied Open Gardena Day.
Many thanks to Joanna Morris-Jones for this report