ON September 23, 1966, in the Wiveliscombe Constitutional Rooms, the first meeting took place of the Floral Art Club with Thelma Butcher as chairman and 20 members.

Since then the club has gone from strength to strength and today has 40 members. The name has changed to Wiveliscombe & District Flower Club with a programme each year of demonstrations by NAFAS-approved demonstrators, outings to renowned gardens, club shows and workshops.

On August 9 a celebratory lunch was held at Oake Manor Golf Club with South West president Jo Jacobs as guest and proposing the toast to the club.

Two founder members, June Hill and Betty Webber, were also present.

On September 13 Tina Parks is giving a 50th anniversary demonstration at Wiveliscombe Primary School.

Visitors are welcome to attend any of the club’s meetings – the Christmas demonstration by David Martin on Tuesday, November 8, is a suggested diary date.