Banstead Horticultural Society - a presentation by Diana Beck

Presentation 4th June 2024 at Cuddington Golf Club with members of Rotary and invited guests from Banstead Horticultural Society

The presentation outlined the origins of the Society in 1931 and its development over the last 92 years to a modern society whose sole aim is to promote horticulture in all its aspects through shows, events and interacting with the community. Insight was given into the practice of exhibiting at the 5 annual Flower Shows and to the wonderful traditional experience of entering a hall full of spring and summer sights and scents, followed by a cuppa and legendary cake. The Events cover a wide range of activities catering to the varied interests of our members: from coach trips and informal daytime meetings to formal speakers including celebrities, Charlie Dimmock this year. In the Community, friendships with local charities are represented and celebrated at the BHS Open Day and Mini show in May. The long-standing alliance with Banstead Rotary began with annual Purple for Polio plantings in Banstead (great fun), continued with Banstead Village in Bloom (gold medal team in 2019),  and includes many years of participating in the Village Day (and former supply of trestle tables). The Society currently runs a local front garden competition, maintains the Community Hall Border, and there are hopes to reinstate a former schools’ group. Mutual benefits are shared with Epsom College, which provides inter alia, a weekly garden service for members during the autumn and winter terms. At present the Society supports the conservation of Banstead Wildlife Field, (which is reported separately). All in all,  a huge amount of work for a small, dedicated committee in terms of productivity, organisation and publicity, which is augmented by practical help from a significant number of members who enjoy the contribution and friendships that result.  Diana Beck, Vice President, Banstead Horticultural Society June 2024.

The 2024 programme of activities is included on our General and Local Events Page