I am compiling this programme on a bright sunny day in October during a marvellous Indian summer! As you can see we shall be having an in depth look at Show Auriculas next year and the talks promise to be fascinating. I hope you will approve of the 2010 programme and that you will all continue to come along and support our little group.

OUR MEETINGS   are held at The Royal British Legion, Gotham, which lies on Nottingham Road, the main road through Gotham. The meetings are relaxed and informal! Please note that we no longer have a buffet meal at our meetings. The bar will be open and there are also tea and coffee making facilities.

We charge £1.00 for admission to each meeting and this goes towards speakers expenses and room hire.

THANKS   Once again we extend our grateful thanks to the staff of The Royal British Legion in Gotham. They have made us feel very welcome.

RAFFLE   My special thanks to all who have donated much needed prizes at previous meetings. The proceeds of the raffle are vital to pay for the hall rental.

SECOND HAND BOOKS   Hazel and Chris Wood kindly started a second hand book sale at our meetings and it raises funds for the group. They and several other members have donated books. If you have any unwanted books, preferably on the subject of plants and gardening, please bring them along.

OPEN DAYS at FIELD HOUSE NURSERY   In 2010 there will be TWO Auricula Open Days at Field House Nursery. They are on Sunday April 25th, 11am to 5pm and Sunday May 2nd, 11am to 5pm. All are welcome! We need volunteers to keep an eye on the tunnels and to answer questions from the general public. Please let Val know if you can spare an hour or so. Helpers will get a free lunch!

SPECIALIST PLANT SALES   Val is organising five Specialist Plant Sales in 2010. They are at Chatsworth (April 18th and September 12th) and Renishaw Hall (May 16th and August 15th). ‘Fanfare for Spring‘ takes place at Renishaw Hall on February 28th and there will be rare snowdrops, hellebores, primulas, alpines and shrubs for sale. The garden will be open and there will be plenty of hot refreshments. It should be a great start to the year.

FINALLY   Thanks to all who attend our meetings and help to make them so enjoyable. Special thanks also to to members who have given talks to the group and who have travelled long distances to do so. I look forward to seeing you all next year!