Planning over. Gardens all ready .All that was left to do was to clear the river, taking care not to disturb the nests of the moorhens,ducks and the water voles that have taken up residence in and around the overgrown banks.

Thursday morning dawned bright and sunny and a small intrepid group began the unenviable task of hacking away at obstinate vegetation. Two hours later a path had been created, sufficiently navigable for a plethora of plastic ducks to pass along in an attempt to be first to cross the winning line. Coffee and a small brandy was called upon now the task was completed. The brandy, just in case there was something unhealthy lurking in those muddy waters. Purely for medicinal reasons, of course!

Friday brought rain and the Curious Incident of the Marquee on the Green. At 2 pm a collection of rods, poles and striped materials were ceremoniously dumped on the wet grass.

Work began. Poles were selected and attempts at connection were made and discarded.

Much discussion followed with ideas coming from all sides including dog walkers and passers by. More help was called for but two and a half hours later the team was no further forward until Mr. CorbettWindup appeared with the suggestion that if all else fails, read the instructions! Instructions were produced and minutes later the marquee was up and ready for action!

Saturday and soon visitors arrived to enjoy an afternoon of garden exploration, an exhibition of past times in Martinstown with tea and cakes in the Village hall, plus cream teas and cold drinks in our recently refurbished Village shop and pimms in the marquee to name but a few

of the attractions.

Wet Sunday and owners of dogs of all shapes and breeds,eager to register the family pet in the dog show, appeared in their droves. Andy Clark cofounder of the charity “Woofability”was the judge.Seventeen classes were on offer with rosettes and prizes to mark success.

Andy also gave a short talk using one of his own dogs to demonstrate how effective these highlytrained animals can be in helping disabled children and adults with everyday tasks.

The Casterbridge Singers’ concert in the Church heralded the close of another successful Open Gardens weekend.

Many thanks to all those whose hard work has resulted in yet another successful Open Gardens.