by Elizabeth Brown

THE members at the March meeting of the Cuddington & Sandiway WI heard a talk by Kathy and Keith Williams about the garden at Norton Priory. In the 18th century, a walled garden and icehouse was established some way from the mansion and these were maintained until 1921 when the family moved away, abandoning everything.

The garden was restored in the 1970s. Now it is run by a trust with a few professional gardeners and volunteers, including Keith.

Kathy described the hierarchy of the workforce, led by the head gardener who never got his hands dirty, down to the women who weeded the drives.

Pictures taken by Keith showed that the garden has been restored to its former glory.

It is now home to the national quince collection.

Along with the spectacular herbaceous border, there are four squares of vegetables, soft and cordon fruit, herbs and flowers, a place to celebrate weddings and a building for lectures.

Longstanding member, Connie Stillwell shared her 90th birthday celebrations with much appreciated cakes that she had baked for the occasion.

President, Jenny Friar, reminded everyone about the bingo afternoon on March 19 and also the group meeting on March 23.

Next meeting is on April 9. For information, ring 01606 888446.