As I write these notes on December 29th 2011 the weather is still extremely mild and we have had very few frosts. Our plants have not had a proper rest as yet and there have been many reports of auriculas and primulas in full bloom! It seems likely that we shall experience an early flowering season, hopefully with better blooms than we saw last year. Time will tell!

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 but members are welcome to donate savoury or sweet snacks to eat after the talk. The bar will be open and there are also tea and coffee making facilities. All meetings commence at 2.30pm.

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.

OPEN DAYS at FIELD HOUSE NURSERY   In 2012 there will be TWO Auricula Open Days at Field House Nursery. They are on Sunday April 15th, 11am to 4pm, and Sunday April 22nd, 11am to 4pm. All are welcome! Would anybody be prepared to come along and give a short demonstration on hybridising, propagation or a similar topic? We also 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 several Specialist Plant Sales in 2012. They are at Chatsworth (May 5th and 6th) and at Renishaw Hall (May 13th and August12th).

FINALLY   Thanks once again to all who attend our meetings and help to make them so enjoyable. Thanks also to members who have given talks to the group and who have travelled long distances to do so. Special thanks to Chris and Hazel Wood for all their support and help at group meetings, for giving talks, organising the sale of second hand books and for donations of wonderful cakes to our raffles. We miss you both and send you are good wishes for 2012.

I look forward to seeing you all next year!