Diamond Anniversary of the Felbridge Horticultural Society
2011 saw the Diamond Anniversary of the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society, having formed in 1951 it has been nurtured and kept alive over the last 60 years by the gardeners of Felbridge and the surrounding district.
The information that follows is taken from the Societys Annual Show and Year Books from 1984 onwards together with the memories of the gardeners of Felbridge (past and present), newspaper clippings and cuttings, and photographs. Unfortunately much of the early information relating to the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society (FDHS) and its members has not survived but their legacy lives on in the names of some of the cups and awards given annually at the FDHS Flower Shows.
Tradition of horticulture and eminent gardeners in Felbridge
In 1911 the Felbridge estate amounting to 1,350 acres was put up for auction, divided into 43 lots. The lots were advertised generally for development, or as properties with an eye to the agricultural and horticultural potential of the area. This auction was followed by at least three more, the last main auction being held in 1918. Even private individuals were sold the horticultural ideals of the area and in the 1918 auction the sites of the Felbridge Hotel, Yew Lane and Furze Lane, were proposed as the Summerlands Garden Village Estate. The advertisement promoted the idea of an idyllic village for families who had a love of the countryside where they would be able to settle in small or moderate-sized villas with a good sized garden, thus giving every husband and wife the ability to raise for the family table better and earlier vegetables and fruits than can be bought from the markets or from neighbouring gardeners.
The break-up and sale of the Felbridge estate provided an opportunity for private individuals to purchase sections of a former gentlemans estate, thus fruit growing and poultry keeping became the predominant use of the newly purchased lands. As a result, by 1920 horticultural businesses such as the Felbridge Fruit Farm and Hoggers Nursery off Copthorne Road, Felbridge Nurseries on Crawley Down Road and the Womens Farm and Garden Union in the Wiremill area, had been established, together with several market gardens, perhaps the best known run by the Poupart family who still have connections with Covent Garden Market to this day.
Felbridge Fruit Farm was registered in 1911 by Eyre Crowe, who moved to Felmere, constructed on part of Hedgecourt Farm after his purchase of the site in 1912. The Fruit Farm operated for ten years from Felmere before Eyre Crowe and his family moved from the property, dissolving the company in 1922.
Felbridge Nurseries was established by Hon. Rupert Edward Cecil Lee Guinness (of Guinness fame), Percy James Machin and Cecil Courtney Chorley in 1919 when they purchased Horticultural Travelling Structures Company Ltd. that had been operating from the site in Felbridge since the late 1890s. Cecil Chorely over-saw the day to day running of Felbridge Nurseries that switched to growing tomatoes instead of peaches as it had been up until the purchase of the site. Under Cecil Chorely, Felbridge Nurseries built up a reputation for its produce which was sold at Covent Garden Market (right up until it stopped growing fruit in 1971) through T J Poupart, a company founded in 1876 that still operates today having become a subsidiary of a major food group representing growers from all over Britain and around the world. Felbridge Nurseries closed in 2006 having been purchased by the Jeffries family in 1950.
Womens Farm and Garden Union (now known as the Womens Farm & Garden Association) was formed in 1899 to give single women the opportunity to work in agriculture in their own right, predominantly in poultry keeping and fruit growing. In 1918 the WFGU purchased a large section of the Wiremill area, thus enabling ordinary women to live and work on the land.
Martin Poupart, a market gardener, took out a tenancy on Park Farm off Woodcock Hill sometime between 1901 and 1911. He was part of the company TJ Poupart who have specialised in the sale of fresh produce at Covent Garden Market since 1892 (see above).
John Hogger moved to Felbridge shortly after World War I, founding Hoggers Nursery in 1919 on a strip of land to the south of Copthorne Road (now the sites of nos. 81 to 83 including Danecourt Nurseries). John specialised in raising and cultivating heathers and the varieties of conifers known as Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, many of which now grace numerous gardens in Felbridge. John Hogger continued to run his nursery until his death in 1952.
Sylvia Crowe was the daughter of Eyre Crowe (see above) and as a result of illness was home taught. However, during the years of World War I she was called upon to help on her parents farm, and in her spare time she would wonder around Hedgecourt Lake enjoying the countryside. Out of her love of the countryside and interest in landscape, grew a desire to design and create gardens and in 1920 she enrolled on a course at Swanley Horticultural College. Her studies would eventually lead to her becoming one of the foremost garden architects of the 20th century with a large body of work to her name including diverse projects ranging from private gardens and New Towns to Power Stations and Reservoirs.
Fred Millard moved to Camla, Copthorne Road (now the sites of 55 and 55a), with his wife Emma in the mid 1920s. It was within the grounds of Camla that Fred created a world renowned garden and established himself as a commercial alpine plantsman. He was an Honorary Member of the Alpine Garden Society and a member of the RHS, being awarded the Victoria Medal of Honour in 1932 for his introduction to cultivation of many new plants.
These are just a few early horticulturalists of the Felbridge area and with a pedigree of such eminent gardeners it is not surprising that the FDHS was eventually established in Felbridge. The only surprise is that it was not formed earlier, although World War II probably interrupted any thoughts of forming the FDHS, the residents concentrating their resources in helping with the war efforts with the formation of the Felbridge Herb Gathers and the Felbridge Village Produce Association.
Felbridge Herb Gatherers was formed during World War II in response to the Vegetable Drug Committees directive to encourage the people of Britain to collect and dry plants found in this country that could be used as substitutes for medical plants imported from the Continent. Dora Wheeler, a prominent member of the WI, mobilised the children of Felbridge School to gather and dry the required herbs from gardens, hedgerows, waste ground and the Commons of the Felbridge area to help meet the shortage of imported botanical plants and herbs. These were then sent to botanical drug trader Brome & Schrimmer in London to be processed. The children also picked blackberries that were sent to make jam for the troops, at home and abroad.
There is no evidence of herb gathering on a large scale in Felbridge during World War I even though the medical plants in use then were also in short supply. However, from the School Log, it is known that during World War I the school children did pick blackberries for jam making, as they did again in World War II.
Felbridge Village Produce Association was formed in 1940 with the aim to encourage all Felbridge residents to grow their own produce in support of the Dig for Victory campaign that had been instigated in Britain soon after the start of World War II in 1939.
By the late 1930s Britain imported over 55 million tons of food and with the outbreak of World War II the government realised that the population would go hungry if the war lasted longer then a few months, therefore the British reliance on imported food needed to be significantly reduced. One of the ways to achieve this was rationing that was introduced in 1940, which lasted until 1954. However, the government was aware that rations needed to be supplemented and the easiest way to achieve this was to encourage the population to grow its own food, thus the introduction of the Dig for Victory campaign.
The Felbridge VPA held weekly markets on a Friday at the Felbridge (St Johns) Institute in Copthorne Road, now the site of the new development called Mulberry Gate. Villagers would take any fruit and vegetables they had grown, or eggs and poultry that were surplus to their own requirements to be purchased by those that needed them. One contributor was Vera Quilter who regularly supplied produce from her garden at Glendale near The Limes estate. Ken Housman, another contributor, once said that even as little as one spare egg would be taken to the market as it was bound to supplement someones rations during the war.
Felbridge Horticultural Society grows out of Village Produce Association
According to the booklet Felbridge Parish and People, compiled and published by the Felbridge Parish Council in 1976, the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society was formed in 1951, having its roots in the Village Produce Association that had been established in Felbridge in 1940. It is on this basis (and the fact that some of the founding members of the FDHS contributed their memories to the compilation of the booklet) that the FDHS celebrated their Diamond Anniversary in 2011.
It has become apparent that the VPA continued to operate until at least the late 1950s, holding their weekly market at the Felbridge Institute, every Friday morning from 9.00 am. It is also apparent that both the VPA and the FDHS worked very closely with the Felbridge Womens Institute, and that during the 1950s (up until 1958) held twice yearly shows incorporating both horticultural exhibits including fruit, vegetables and flowers, and home craft exhibits including cookery and handicraft. However, in 1958 it was decided that only one show would be held and that was to be in the early autumn. Unfortunately it has not yet been possible to determine whether this was a one off occurrence or not but by the early 1980s the FDHS were holding three shows a year, Spring, Mini Summer and Autumn, as well as a monthly competition, although now it has reverted to two shows a year, Spring and Late Summer.
Founding members of the FDHS include Richard and Minnie Back of Copthorne Road, Frank Glover of Bitterne, Rowplatt Lane, Geoff and Mary Handley of Furnace Wood, Tom Pentecost, Wing Commander John S and Mrs Nancy Phillips of Copthorne Road, William G Phillips of Pinecroft, Lake View Road, Furnace Wood, Douglas and Edna Roberts of Crawley Down Road, Frank and Ivy Warner of Rowplatt Lane, and Charles (Charlie) and Dora Wheeler of Crawley Down Road. Many went on to form the Felbridge Parish Council in 1953. Of the afore mentioned FDHS members, Geoff Handley, Frank Warner and Charlie Wheeler seem to have been the most successful exhibitors.
Affiliated Member
The Felbridge & District Horticultural Society is been affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) since at least 1959.
The idea of a British horticultural society was suggested in 1800 by John Wedgewood (son of Josiah Wedgewood), who believed, in true Victorian fashion, that it would be a good idea to hold regular meetings that would allow society members the opportunity to present papers on their horticultural activities and discoveries. He also felt the society should award prizes for gardening achievements.
Four years later a meeting eventually took place. Chaired by John Wedgewood it was attended by William Townsend (successor to his father as Superintendent at Kew Gardens), Sir Joseph Banks (President of the Royal Society), James Dickson (a nurseryman), William Forsyth (Superintendent of the gardens of St James Palace and Kensington Palace), Charles Francis Greville (a Lord of the Admiralty) and Richard Anthony Sainsbury who went on to become the Secretary of the new society. Thus in 1804 the RHS was founded in London as the Horticultural Society of London, its first member being Thomas Andrew Knight, a close friend of Sir Joseph Banks. It was not until 1861 that the society was granted its current name by Royal Charter.
Today the RHS is one of the worlds leading horticultural organisations and Britains leading garden charity dedicated to the advancement of horticulture and promotion of gardening, with over 2,800 affiliated societies.
In the past, members of the FDHS were offered a selection of RHS privileges. Former privileges included unlimited tickets being made available for free entry into the RHS Garden at Wisley, but this was reduced to four tickets in 1993, two in 1996 and discontinued in 2001. Like-wise a limited number of tickets used to be made available for the Chelsea Flower Show in May and the Great Autumn Show but this was discontinued in 1989.
Annual Subscription to the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society and members Privileges
The annual subscription is currently £5 a member (valid from March to March) with a monthly meeting cover charge of £1.
Discount facilities are currently available on some purchases made at ATS of Felbridge (specialists in tyres, batteries and shock absorbers) and Orchard Nursery of East Grinstead on production of the FDHS Yearbook. In the past other businesses have offered discount facilities to FDHS members including: Ashdown Forest Nursery of Duddleswell, Autoculture of Felbridge, Felbridge Nursery Plant Shop, Motech of Felbridge, Occasionally Yours of Lingfield, Paice & Sons (Felbridge Ltd), Rice Brothers of East Grinstead and Snowhill Plant Centre of Copthorne.
In 1991 the Burstow Horticultural Association extended the offer of discount purchasing of horticultural items from their allotments in Smallfield on production of the FDHS membership card. In 1992 Sutton Seeds introduced the offer of between 10% and 30% off their products to members of the FDHS if sent for in bulk before Christmas. The Sutton Seeds offer was withdrawn in 1999 and the Burstow Horticultural Association privileges lasted for just three years.
Monthly meetings have formerly been held at the Felbridge (St Johns) Institute and St Johns Church Hall, but since 1985 have been held at the Felbridge Village Hall on the third Thursday of each month at 8.15pm. A general programme of meetings includes, the Spring Show, a Bring and Buy night, a summer visit to a Stately Home and Gardens, a Luncheon Garden Party, the Late Summer Show, a quiz night and talks by guest speakers.
The Annual General Meeting is held in November.
Annual Shows and Awards
In the early days, the FHS held one show a year the Annual Flower and Vegetable Show held in the Summer. This was organised and held in conjunction with the Felbridge WI, offering members of both the FDHS and the WI classes in which they could exhibit, including: vegetables, flowers, fruit, home produce, knitting, sewing and basket making, a childrens section and a Gardens award open to gardeners who gardened without paid help or with no more than six hours of help a week that ran during the 1950s. Awards must have been given for each class but without early documentation it has not been possible to determine exactly what was given for which class, except perhaps the W. I. Cup, that was awarded to the member with the most points in the home produce and handicraft classes. However, in 1953 the Coronation Cup was instigated, awarded to the member gaining the most points in the vegetable, fruit, flower and garden sections. This award was presented at the Annual Horticultural Show held in the Summer until 1958 when the date was switched to the Autumn.
From at least the early 1980s the FDHS have held three Shows a year, Spring, Mini Summer and Autumn, the exhibition classes reflecting the plants, flowers and produce of each season. In 1989 the Mini Summer Show was renamed as the Summer Show, and in 2003 the Autumn Show was renamed the Late Summer Flower Show. However, in 2000 the number of Shows dropped to two a year, the Spring Flower Show and Late Summer Flower Show and these two Shows were standard in 2011, the Diamond Anniversary year.
With regards to the cups and awards that have bee presented over the years to members of the FDHS very few records survive before 1984 and as such it has not been possible to determine the exact date that some of the awards and prizes were instigated or ceased to be presented.
Origins of Cups and Awards
African Violet Vase: awarded for the best exhibit of the African Violet Class in the Summer Flower Show first given in 1993, and is currently awarded in the Late Summer Flower Show. This cup was introduced by the FDHS committee.
Austin Trophy: awarded for the highest number of points in the Handicrafts Section in the Autumn Flower Show. It has proved impossible to determine the first date this was given but it was some time between 1977 and 1985 and is currently awarded in the Late Summer Flower Show.
The cup is named after Mrs Myrtle Austin, Honorary Auditor from some time before 1984 until 1991. Myrtle was born Myrtle Ray (some times listed Raymond) Kirby in Woolwich in 1907 and married George Douglas Austin in Cambridge in 1933, the couple having at least two children, Jan and Mary before moving to the Felbridge area.
Banksian Medal: awarded each year by the RHS to the winner of the most points in Horticultural Classes A, B, C, D and E (Autumn plants, Dahlias, Fruit, Vegetables and Floral Arrangement) in the Autumn Show between 1959 and 1985). A condition of winning the medal is that if a competitor has won the medal for the previous two consecutive years they are not eligible and the medal is then to be presented to the runner-up.
In 1986 the Flower Arrangement Class was removed and it was just awarded to the winner of the most points in Horticultural Classes A, B, C and D (Autumn plants, Dahlias, Fruit and Vegetables) in the Autumn Flower Show. It continued to be awarded for points until 1989 when points were replaced by money until 1991 when it reverted back to points again, and is currently awarded in the Late Summer Show.
The medal is named after Sir Joseph Banks, one of the original founders of the RHS and president of the Royal Society. He was born in London, the son of a weather Lincolnshire squire and member of the House of Commons, being educated at Harrow, Eton and Oxford, focusing on natural history. In 1766 he accompanied Phipps to Newfoundland and Labrador, making his name by publishing the first Linnaean descriptions of the plants and animals he found there. In 1768 he was appointed to the joint Royal Navy/Royal Society scientific expedition to the South Pacific Ocean on HM Bark Endeavour, the first of James Cooks voyages of discovery. Joseph Banks was made a Baronet in 1781.
Berys West Memorial Trophy: awarded for the best exhibit in Section D (Vegetables) in the Summer Flower Show in 1995 being awarded until 1999 for the Best Vegetable entry of the Summer Flower Show. Since 2000, and currently, it is awarded for the best Patio Pot in the Late Summer Show.
Berys West was born Berys Bidgood on 10th August 1921 and married Ernest Waldron West in Pershore, Worcestershire, in 1949. Ernest, known as Waldron West, was a respected portrait artist who also painted in the Surrealist style in the 1930s. Berys and Waldron lived in the Worcester area until the 1960s, later moving to The Waldrons in Furnace Road, Furnace Wood, from where they both died in 1994. Berys West was Honorary Secretary of the FDHS between 1989 and 1994.
Berys West Memorial Plate (formerly the Berys West Society Plate): awarded as the Berys West Society Plate for the best exhibit in Section D (Vegetables) in the Autumn Flower Show from in 1995 but changed its name to the Berys West Memorial Plate in 1996 and is currently awarded for the same Section in the Late Summer Show.
Chairmans Challenge Cup: awarded for the best collection of Vegetables in a Tray in the Autumn Flower Show, judged for quality and effect in 1991 and is currently awarded in the Late Summer Show.
The cup was donated in 1990 by Maurice Wright who had been chairman for many years retiring his position in 1988. At the time of introduction the Chairman was Doreen Hilton of Heathercroft, Crawley Down.
Childrens Cup: awarded for highest number of points in Section H in the Autumn Flower Show [children up to 7 years] between 1985 and 1991, when the category changed being awarded for the most points in the Childrens Floral Arrangement in the Autumn Flower Show [up to 14 years] until 1993. Re-introduced in 2007 as the award for the highest number of points in Section H Handicrafts Childrens Classes [up to 9 years]. The cup was introduced between 1968 and 1977.
Childrens Cup: awarded for highest number of points in Section I in the Autumn Flower Show [Children 8 - 12 years] between 1986 and 1991, when the category changed being awarded for the most points in the Childrens Handicraft Section in the Autumn Flower Show [up to 14 years] until 2004. Re-introduced in 2007 as the award for the highest number of points in Section H Handicrafts Childrens Classes [age 10 and upwards]. The cup was introduced between 1968 and 1977.
Coronation Cup: awarded to the member gaining the most points in the vegetable, fruit, flower and garden sections of the Annual Flower and Vegetable Show held in the Summer Show from 1953 until at least 1958 when it lost the Gardens Section and was awarded to the member gaining the most points in just the vegetable, fruit and flower sections in the Annual Horticultural Show held in the Autumn.
The Coronation Cup was donated by Wing Commander and Mrs John S Phillips. Unfortunately it has not yet been possible to determine the last date this cup was awarded but it was some time in the 1960s.
Dahlia Cup: awarded for the best Dahlia exhibit in the Autumn Flower Show since 1986 and is currently awarded in the Late Summer Show. The cup was introduced by the FDHS committee some time between 1977 and 1985.
Diamond Jubilee Cup: awarded for the over-all winner of the Members Garden Photographic Project, introduced in 2011 to celebrate the FDHS 60th anniversary. The project involves members taking photographs of their gardens during the four seasons. Certificates are awarded for the best garden photograph of each season and the best individual detail of a garden, and the Diamond Jubilee Cup is awarded for the best over-all photograph of a members garden. The Members Garden Photographic Project is judged and the prizes awarded during one of the winter meetings.
One of the aims of the Diamond Jubilee Cup was to re-introduce and re-establish, as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations, a modern-day equivalent of an original award that was given by the FDHS for many years, the Gardens award (see above). The Members Garden Photographic Project gives members an opportunity to receive recognition for all their hard work through the celebration of their own gardens. The on-going project will also create a visual archive of Felbridge gardens, a legacy for future members of the FDHS to take inspiration from.
The Diamond Jubilee Cup was donated by Rosie Archer, Chairman of the FDHS in 2011.
Flora Award: given by Stanley Gibbons International Ltd for the most outstanding exhibit in Floral Art in the Autumn Flower Show. Unfortunately it has not yet been possible to determine the first date this was given but it was some time between 1968 and 1977 and it ceased being awarded in 1984.
Floral Art Trophy: awarded for the best exhibit in Petite & Miniature Classes in the Summer Flower Show between 1992 and 1999. It was not awarded in 2000, and from 2001, and currently, it is awarded for the best exhibit in Section E (Floral Art) in the Late Summer Show.
Floral Challenge Cup: awarded for the best exhibit in Floral Art in the Summer Flower Show being introduced in 1992 and ceased to be given in 1999.
Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society Diploma and Certificate: awarded at both the Summer and Autumn Shows, for either Floral Art or Horticulture. The awards were introduce some time between 1977 and 1985 and ceased being given in 1993.
The GRBS was founded in 1836 as the Gardeners Royal Benevolent Institution being renamed in 1960 and is now known as Perennial (Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society). Originally founded exclusively for gardeners to provide relief in sickness and provision for old age, its fund raising activities have diversified over the years.
The GRBS introduced the Show Awards Scheme in 1968, supported by the Worshipful Company of Gardeners. These awards are not for sale and are only available by donation as a contribution to the cost of providing them. Three diplomas are available, which are: Diploma for Excellence in Horticulture, Certificate of Merit for Floral Art, and Novices Award for Merit in Horticulture or Floral Art.
Mary Sayers Trophy: awarded for the best exhibit in the Fuchsia classes in the Autumn Flower Show since 1990 and is currently awarded for the same class in the Late Summer Show. The award was introduced some time between 1977 and 1985.
Mary Sayers was Vice President of the FDHS from some time before 1984 until 1987.
Mortlock Cup: awarded for the highest number of points for the most outstanding Pot Plant in the Autumn Flower Show being introduced some time between 1977 and 1985. However, from 1993 it has been awarded for the most outstanding pot plant for quality and effect in Section A of the Autumn Flower Show, being currently awarded for the same category in the Late Summer Show.
Newton Cup: awarded for the best Rose Specimen in the Summer Flower Show since 1975, however since 2000 it has been awarded, as it is currently, for the best Rose Specimen in the Late Summer Show.
This cup is named after Charles Ernest Newton, a former Chairman of the FDHS and prolific winner at their shows in the 1960s, who lived at Tally-Ho, 59, Copthorne Road, from where he died, aged seventy-one, in February 1975, being buried at St Johns church, Felbridge.
Paice Trophy: awarded for the highest number of points in Sections A, B, C, D and E (Autumn plants, Dahlias, Fruit, Vegetables and Floral Arrangement) in the Autumn Flower Show between 1985 and 2000 when Section E (Floral Arrangements) was removed and it was, as is currently awarded, for the highest points in Section A, B, C and D in the Late Summer Show.
The cup is named after Peter Paice, a former President of the FDHS from some time before 1984 until 1999 when the position ceased to exist.
Parnell Cup: awarded for the most number of points in the Domestic Class of the Autumn Flower Show being introduced some time between 1968 and 1977, and is currently awarded for the same Class in the Late Summer Show.
This cup was given by Miss Mary Parnell, Show Secretary some time before 1984 until 1988. Mary was born on 29th November 1926, the daughter of William Parnell (see below) and died in 1988.
Ray Lowe Cup: awarded for highest number of points in the Summer Flower Show being introduced some time between 1977 and 1985, however since 1991 it was awarded for Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables in the Summer Flower Show until 1999. Since 2000, it has been awarded for the best Mixed Cut Flowers Section of the Autumn Flower Show and is currently awarded for the same category in the Late Summer Show.
Raymond Phillip Lowe lived at 123, Crawley Down Road, from where he died in July 1994, being buried at St. Johns church, Felbridge. As a point of interest, the cup for many years acquired an extra e being advertised in the FDHS Year Books as the Raye Lowe Cup!
Red Ribbon Award: given by Amateur Gardening for the most outstanding exhibits in Sections A, B, C and D (Autumn plants, Dahlias, Fruit and Vegetables) in the Autumn Flower Show being introduced some time between 1968 and 1977. The last year it was awarded was 1993 when it was re-worded as given for the most outstanding exhibits in Horticultural Section of the Autumn Flower Show.
Rose Bowl: awarded for the highest number of points in Section E (Floral Arrangements) in the Autumn Flower Show being introduced some time between 1968 and 1977. Since 2000 the Rose Bowl is awarded for the most points in the Rose Section in the Late Summer Show.
Small Rose Bowl (formerly Rose Bowl [Spring Show]): awarded for best exhibit in Section B (Spring Floral Arrangement and Cut Flowers Class) in the Spring Flower Show between 1986 and 1989, then it was awarded solely for the Spring Floral Arrangement in the Spring Show until 1992. In 1993 it was renamed the Small Rose Bowl (to distinguish if from the Rose Bowl awarded in the Autumn Flower Show) and was awarded for the Spring Floral Arrangement in the Spring Show until 1999. In 2000, and currently, the Small Rose Bowl is awarded for the best exhibit of Mixed Cut Flower Collection in the Spring Show.
Society Challenge Cup: awarded to the winner of Class 22 Members Challenge (Plug Plants provided by the FDHS), introduced to the Late Summer Show in 2011.
Societys Cup: awarded to the member gaining the highest points in Section A, B, C, D and E (Autumn plants, Dahlias, Fruit, Vegetables and Floral Arrangement) of the Autumn Flower Show between 1968 until 1986. Since 1986, and currently, the Societys Cup has been awarded for the most points in the Spring Plants and Pot Plants Section of the Spring Show.
Societys Cup Domestic: since 2001 and currently, awarded for the most points in the Domestic Section in the Spring Flower Show, replacing the Societys Shield (see below).
Societys Shield: awarded for the most points in the Domestic Section in the Spring Flower Show from between 1993 and 2000 replaced by the Societys Cup Domestic in 2001 (see above).
Spring Plate: awarded for the best exhibit in Section A (Spring Plants and Pot Plants) in the Spring Flower Show between 1992 and 2000. For 2001 and 2002 it was awarded for the best exhibit in Section A (Spring Flowers) in the Spring Flower Show. Since 2003 it has been awarded for the best exhibit in Section A (Spring Flowers excluding Mixed Cut Flower Collection) in the Spring Show.
Treasurers Jug: awarded for the best exhibit in Allwoodii or Pinks in the Summer Flower Show between 1992 and 1999. Since 2000, and currently, it has been awarded for the best exhibit in Allwoodii or Pinks in the Late Summer Show.
Given by Brian Locke of 118, Copthorne Road, the outgoing Treasurer in 1991 after two years in the position, being succeeded by Sidney J Gerrard of Yuba Bueana, New Domewood in 1992.
Victoria Sponge Cup: awarded for the best exhibit in Class 97 (Victoria Sponge) in the Autumn Flower Show since 2001, currently awarded in the Late Summer Show.
Warner Cup: awarded for the most points in the Vegetable Classes in the Autumn Flower Show being introduced some time between 1977 and 1985, currently awarded in the Late Summer Show.
Frank Warner was a prolific winner at FDHS Shows from its formation, serving as Vice President from 1988 until 1997. He lived at 18, Rowplatt Lane, from where he died, aged ninety-four, in April 1997, his ashes being buried at St Johns Church, Felbridge.
William Parnell Memorial Cup: awarded for the most points gained in the Vegetable, Fruit, Flower and Flower Arrangement Classes since about 1965. This cup probably succeeded the Coronation Cup which had formerly been awarded for the most points gained in the Vegetable, Fruit, Flower and Flower Arrangement Classes in the 1950s. The William Parnell Cup was succeeded by the Societys Cup (see above), and has now become the Parnell Cup (see above).
William Poston Parnell was born in Fulham in 1889 and married Winifred Anne Cornwell in the Uckfield area in 1918. William and Winifred had one daughter Mary (see above). Some time after the birth of Mary the Parnell family moved to 19, Rowplatt Lane, Felbridge. In the 1950s William was a member of the FDHS committee, although he rarely appears as a winner in the results column in early reports of their shows. However, Winifred does appear as winning with her hens eggs. William died in 1967 and Winifred died in 1984.
W.I. Cup: awarded to WI members only, in the last Show of the year from 1951 until 1996. After a ten year gap it was reinstated in 2006 and is currently awarded to the WI winner of Class 101 in the Late Summer Show.
The Womens Institute Flower Show cup, to give it its full title, was presented by Mrs E Rayner in 1931.
Various Other Prizes given:
There are no surviving documents recording whether Prizes were given before 1984 or what they may have been if they were given, so the following Prizes are all post 1984.
Spring Show
Award (not specified): awarded for best exhibit in Class 16 [Childrens] in 1986.
Prize: First 30p, Second 20p and Third 10p for all classes made in 1989, increased to 50p First with a Certificate, with Second and Third awarded a Certificate but no monetary award for 1990.
Voucher for £3.00 for the most points in Floral Arrangement Section and Prize: 50p for First in all Classes between 1991 and 1996.
Voucher for £5.00 for the most points in Floral Arrangement Section and Prize: 50p for First in all Classes in 1997.
Prize: First in all Classes 50p between 1998 and 2004 when the Prize ceased.
Rosette: awarded to the winners of the two childrens sections in 1987.
Summer Flower Show
Voucher for £3.00 for the most points in Floral Arrangement Section and Prize: 50p for First in all Classes between 1991 and 1996.
Voucher for £5.00 for the most points in Floral Arrangement Section and Prize: 50p for First in all Classes in 1997.
Prize: First in all Classes 50p awarded in 1998 and 1999 when the Summer Show ceased.
Autumn Show/Late Summer Show
Prize: First 30p, Second 20p and Third 10p for all classes (1989), increased to 50p First with a Certificate, with Second and Third awarded a Certificate but no monetary awarded in 1990.
Prize: First in all Classes 50p awarded between 1991 until 2004 when the Prize ceased.
Photography
Introduced in two sections in 2009 as part of the Late Summer Flower Show. Section I Photography with two adult classes and Section J Photography Childrens Classes [up to nine years] and [ten years upwards], each with a single class. No cups are currently awarded for these two classes but they are seen as sections with potential for growth requiring awards in the future.
Monthly Competition
Prize of 30p awarded for the winner of each Monthly Competition, with a Trophy awarded at the AGM for the competitor gaining the highest number of points from the Monthly Competition through the year. Points awarded on the basis of First 4 points, Second 3 points, Third 2 points and 1 point for all other entrants.
The Monthly Competition, awarded from some time before 1984, consisted of one chosen exhibit per month that was listed in advance in the Yearbook. The exhibits could include things like: a vase of five Spring Flowers, Three Roses, a Christmas Table Decoration or a Pot of Flowering Bulbs. The competition was held within the FDHS monthly meetings and had been a sporadic feature of the FDHS calendar during the 1980s and early 90s, ceasing in 1993 until it was re-instated in 2008 when it ran for two years before again being discontinued due to lack of support.
Current Competition Sections
There are currently two Flower Shows a year Spring and Late Summer.
Spring Flower Show
Section A Daffodils/Narcissi, Tulips, Polyanthus, Primroses, Pansies, Spring Flowers, Mixed Cut Spring Flowers, African Violet, Flowering Pot Plant, stem of a shrub in flower, a single bloom of a Camellia and a Planted Pot or Container.
Section C Domestic, Classes 60 to 64, five designated sweet or savoury dishes, eg: Lemon Drizzle Cake, Filled decorated Chocolate Sponge, Muffins, Biscuits or Cookies, Quiche, Sausage Rolls, including one class allocated a specific recipe to follow. The classes for Domestic are decided by the FDHS committee who try to vary the selections each year.
In the past the Spring Flower Show had a Section B Floral Arrangement but this section was discontinued in 2000.
Late Summer Flower Show
Section A Asters, Chrysanthemums, Pansies/Violas, Roses, Gladiolus, Annuals, Perennials, Mixed Cut Flowers of the Season, Allwoodii/Pinks, Sweet Peas, Flowering Pot Plant, Foliage Pot Plant, stems of a Flowering Shrub of the Season, Fuchsias, Patio Pot or Container and Herb Container.
Section B Dahlias
Section C Fruit
Section D Vegetables
Section E Floral Art
Section F Domestic
Section G Handicrafts
Section H Handicrafts Childrens Classes, age up to Nine years and age 10 years and upwards
Section I Photography
Section J Photography Childrens Classes, up to nine years, and 10 years and upwards.
Current Show Rules
1. Exhibition in all classes is open to all members and local residents. The committee reserves the right to inspect exhibitors gardens etc.
2. Exhibits in all classes are free of charge.
3. All exhibits must be GROWN or MADE by the competitors. Fruit may be bought for classes in SECTION E & F.
4. Exhibits may only be removed after the award of prizes.
5. All entries not to schedule will be disqualified.
JUDGES DESCISION IS FINAL.
6. Only one entry is permitted per individual per class.
7. Vases and Plates provided MUST be used where appropriate in SECTIONS A B C D & F.
8. The Committee will take care but cannot be held responsible for breakage or loss.
9. Exhibits once staged, must not be touched without the consent of the steward, who is there for assistance and advice.
10. Cauliflowers, cabbages, lettuces or root vegetables must be exhibited with a minimum of 5cms of their own stalk, root or base and tomatoes with calyxes attached.
11. Entries in pots or containers must have been wholly container grown.
Members Gardens in Felbridge
Jungle Garden in Mill Lane
When Dave and Daphne moved to Felbridge 13 years ago, the garden was just a big lawn with a giant willow tree, a clump of large conifers and a few rose bushes in the middle of it. The roses have long gone but Dave has managed to blend the trees into his jungle garden by planting exotic bromeliads and ferns in pockets in the forks of their trunks.
As a youngster, Dave and his dad had a dream that one day they would go up the Orinoco River. Some years ago Daphne made Daves dream come true by taking him on holiday to Venezuela.
Growing already
Dave started with a Gunnera manicata, a native of the Columbian jungle that throws out huge rhubarb-like leaves and which is hardy enough to thrive in the UK climate. He planted it in the far corner of the garden. It grew, so he split it and replanted the sections. The jungle was growing already. Then he bought a bamboo and liked it so much he bought another one. Palms and bananas were added as they came on the market.
The pond was dug as a place to grow tropical water plants such as arum lilies including a form called Green Princess and water cannas. Theres also a tender papyrus plant and a blue flowered water lily that both have to be taken into the greenhouse in winter, along with taro plants and a lotus that came from the Hampton Court Flower Show.
Swap plants
Many of Daves friends and work colleagues are also interested in tropical plants and this group of jungle fanatics often swap plants.
When he started the garden, Dave intended to make a plan and stick to it. However, working on the principles that the only things he didnt want were dead straight rows of planting and a garden that could be easily seen from the house, he has managed to evolve the garden in an organic way, and it looks all the better for it.
Dave also plans to create a shallow pond in the gunnera bed so he can grow carnivorous pitcher plants usually only grown successfully under glass in the UK.
Desperate Dan
Daves 10 bamboos are particularly hungry plants. He explained that the Victorians used to throw a dead cow onto their bamboo bed and plants would grow up through the carcass! But some of the bamboos still live up to that Desperate Dan image and the Chinese walking stick bamboo is not one that Dave would recommend for a small garden.
One bamboo he is please with is Phyllostachys aureosulcata f. auriocaulis with its green striped gold stalks.
The end of October is when Daves hard work in the garden begins. Many of his plants are moved into the heated greenhouse, and most of the bananas are wrapped in fleece. At the beginning of May, Dave takes a chance on the odd late frost, and brings his plants out again.
Most of Daves plants come from specialist nurseries in Cornwall. There are lots of small nurseries there, as well as big old gardens that have plant sales. Most of the plants in my garden were known to the Victorians; we are just discovering them again.
Hard work
Another source of plants is seed brought back from abroad by the couple and their friends.
The striking agapanthus were grown from seed brought back from South Africa. Dave insists that agapanthus are very easy to grow from seed. Plectrabthus zuluensis, with its aromatic foliage and generous blue flowers is the easiest plant in the world to propagate, according to Dave. One thing Dave does regret is that he did not become involved in tropical plants as a career.
Plant hunter
Daphne is happy for Dave to extend his jungle and birthday and Christmas presents between them tend to be new plants for the garden. Dave is looking forward to increasing the size of his jungle, digging up more lawn. He does not particularly like digging, but he hates mowing.
What Dave is looking for now are interesting tropical plants that he can grow in the forks of his trees and which will live outside all year round.
Abridged article taken from Amateur Gardening, 22nd October 2005
Open Gardens
In the mid 2000s the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society instigated an annual Felbridge Village Open Gardens Day. This was held at the beginning of July with all proceeds being given to charity.
Care was taken to ensure that there was a wide selection of different kinds of gardens to visit in and around Felbridge village. They ranged from an English cottage style garden to the jungle environment (see above), a wide-open landscaped garden with named trees to a small intimate courtyard garden; a Gertrude Jekyll inspired garden surrounding a Lutyens house to a family friendly garden, and an established, typically English garden to a large garden created from a field.
Refreshments were served at two of the gardens, and some of the owners offered plants for sale that they had raised from their gardens.
The 2007 event proved popular and raised around £1,000, the proceeds going to St Catherines Hospice.
However, in 2008 only two gardens of Felbridge were opened to the public, this time as part of the Yellow Book National Gardens Scheme. These two gardens were Felbridge Copse the Lutyens inspired garden and home of Paul and Martin Thomas-Jeffreys and Felbridge Courtyard (the former home of floral designer Paul Thomas) now home of Caroline and Richard Teed. The two gardens raised over £3,000 between them, the money split between several national and local charities.
The last time the Felbridge Open Gardens Day was held was in November 2009.
Felbridge & District Horticultural Society Gardening Tips
1. Start to use slug protection on Valentines Day.
2. Prune your Box plants on Derby Day.
3. Make this the year you join FDHS.
4. Even if you cant dig out all your perennial weeds, remember that even bindweed wont survive perpetually having its head chopped off.
5. Grow your carrots in containers, raised as high off the ground as you can manage, to deter carrot root fly. Im considering the flat roof for next year!
6. Use those huge nettles which seem to appear overnight to make your own liquid fertilizer learn how to do it from FDHS.
7. Put an upturned pot stuffed with shredded paper or straw on top of Dahlia supports to trap earwigs.
8. Good task for a wet winter afternoon make your own seed pots or logs for the fire out of newspaper.
9. Another good task for a wet winter afternoon go through the catalogues and plan for next summer. Order your seeds in plenty of time perhaps FDHS can help with this!
10. Even cheaper seeds save your own flower and vegetable seeds from this years plants for next year.
11. Dont forget The Chelsea Chop cutting back perennials in Chelsea Flower show week to prolong their flower display. Details of how to do it from FDHS.
12. Save time and effort - set up an automatic watering and feeding system for your greenhouse. Perhaps run it from the water barrel (you do have a water barrel outside the greenhouse, dont you?).
13. Take plenty of photos of borders etc throughout the season, so that you can remember what you promised yourself you would do to improve them for next year.
14. Keep a basic garden diary you think you are going to remember what you did and when, but you wont.
15. For bushier Sedum plants which are much less inclined to flop, pinch out growing tips in June.
16. If you want to increase the acid levels in your soil, mulch with shredded Christmas trees.
17. Tulips are better lifted and stored after flowering. To make this easier, plant them in pots and sink the pots in the borders.
18. Never go out into the garden without a pair of secateurs.
19. If you dont have a heated propagator, put freshly planted seeds on top of a fridge or fish tank, for a little gentle warmth.
20. If you havent much room to grow your own, go up, with hanging baskets or trellis, arches or pergolas. Did you know you can grow courgettes as trees, by tying them to a post or arch, and that squashes will happily scramble over a hedge?
21. Always lock the tool shed.
22. Dont tidy too much for winter remember that beneficial creatures need winter shelter.
23. Really grubby gardening hands can be soft as well as clean if you wash them with a mixture of sugar and washing up liquid.
24. Cut lawn edges before mowing rather than after then the mower will pick up all the debris for you.
25. Dont water lawns light watering encourages shallow roots and makes them less able to tolerate dry conditions. Brown patches soon recover when the weather changes.
26. If it doesnt rain, damp down runner bean foliage in the evening to set the flowers.
27. Plant a few Sweet Peas or Borage in the vegetable patch, to attract bees.
28. Dig out a slit trench and put in a plastic barrier to help to deter next doors weeds from spreading into your carefully weeded garden.
29. Dont be so busy in the garden that you dont have time to relax with a cup of tea and enjoy the results of your hard labours.
30. Dont forget to join FDHS! Ring 01342 311184 for details.
Newspaper Cuttings
Judges liked the Exhibits
The high quality of the exhibits, especially those in the vegetable section, was praised by the judges at the annual flower and vegetable show organised by the Felbridge Womens Institute and the Village Produce Association on Saturday.
But the exhibit, which probably attracted the most attention - at least from the ladies -, did not come out of a garden. It was a beautiful embroidered willow pattern design in literally thousands of tiny stitches, and it won Miss Jean Sargent first prize in the silk embroidery class.
There were about 300 entries for the show, which was held at the Institute. This total was about the usual. Mr W. G. Phillips, the hon. Secretary, told the Observer, but was less than last year, which was exceptional.
Mr G. Morling and Mr J. Piper, both of East Grinstead, judged the flowers, fruit and vegetables. The miniature flower arrangements were judged by Miss Prideaux, the handicrafts by Miss Wiltshire and the wine by Mr and Mrs T. P. Peters.
Judges for the cookery classes were Miss Bagot and Mrs Bonwick, and the eggs were judged by Mr Randall.
The Coronation Cup, presented by Wing-Commander J. S. Phillips and Mrs Phillips to the V P A member for gaining most points in the vegetable, fruit, flower and garden sections, went to Mr G. Handley and the runner-up was Mr C. Wheeler.
Mrs R. H. Back was the winner of the W I Cup for the member with most points in the home produce and handicraft classes, joint runners-up being Mrs Corby and Mrs Uphill.
Prizes were presented by Wing-Commander Phillips.
THE RESULTS
VEGATABLES
Tray of vegetables: 1. G. Handley: 2. C. Wheeler. Kidney potatoes: 1. G. Handley. Round potatoes: 1. C. Wheeler. Beetroot: 1. G. Handley: 2. C. Wheeler. Carrots: 1. Mrs Warner. Onions: 1. Miss C. E. Salmon, 2. Mrs Warner. Shallots: 1. Miss C. E. Salmon, 2. Mrs Back. Marrows: 1. G. Handley. Lettuce: 1. Mrs Back. Cabbage: 1. W. G. Phillips. Runner beans: 1. T. Pentecost, 2. W. T. Westgate. Tomatoes: 1. C. Wheeler, 2. J. S. Phillips.
FLOWERS
Chrysanthemums: 1. Mrs R. L. Barber. Chrysanthemum sprays: 1. F. Glover. Roses: 1. Mrs Warner, 2. Mrs D. Roberts. Pompom dahlias: 1. Mrs T. Pentecost. Dahlias: 1. T. Pentecost, 2. Mrs Barber. Gladioli: 1. G. Handley. Flowers and foliage arranged for effect: 1. Miss Mart, 2. Miss Taylor. Miniature flower arrangement: 1. Mrs Pentecost, 2. Miss Mart, 3. Mrs Roberts. Garden flowers: 1. Mrs J. S. Phillips.
FRUIT
Cooking apples: 1. Mrs Fowler. Dessert apples: 1. Mrs D. Roberts. Mixed fruit: 1. C. Wheeler.
HOME PRODUCE
White loaf: 1. Mrs Bailey. Jam tart: 1. Mrs Warner, 2. Miss Wallis, 3. Mrs A. E. Pentecost. Eccles cakes: 1. Mrs Back. Cherry cake: 1. Mrs Butterworth, 2. Miss Taylor, 3. Mrs H. Smith. Ginger biscuits: 1. Mrs Back, 2. Mrs A. E. Pentecost. Fancy cakes: 1. Mrs Handley. Strawberry jam: 1. Mrs Corby, 2. Mrs E. R. Bird, 3. Mrs Roberts. Grapefruit marmalade: 1. Mrs Uphill. Apple jelly: 1. Mrs Uphill. Mustard pickle: 1. Mrs Corby. Lemon curd: 1. Mrs Back, 2. Miss Walton. Hens eggs: W. Durrant. Home-made wine: 1. Miss C. E. Salmon, 2. Mrs Handley.
KNITTING, SEWING AND BASKETWORK
Knitted bed jacket: 1. Mrs Back. Mens socks: 1. Mrs G. Handley. Quilted cushion cover: 1. Mrs D. Roberts. Hand-made handkerchief: 1. Mrs Back. Silk embroidery: 1. Miss J. Sargent, 2. Mrs Back, 3. Mrs P. Granger. Wool embroidery: 1. Miss Eedy, 2. Miss D. C. Bird. Hand-made cane basket: 1. Mrs Pike.
CHILDRENS CLASSES
UP TO 14 YEARS
Painting: 1. Jennifer Cobbing, 2. Richard Narraway. Most interesting scrap-book: 1. Judith Scott, 2, Christine Lake, 3, Margaret Denman. Wild foliage and berries: 1. Jennifer Wood, 2, Glyn Rees, 3, Christine Lake.
GARDENS
Open to gardeners without paid help or with not more than six hours of help a week.
Vegetable garden: 1. G. Handley, 2. Miss C. E. Salmon.
Flower garden: 1. Miss C. E. Salmon, 2. G. Handley.
Taken from the East Grinstead Observer, September 1955
THE VERDICT ON IT GOOD SHOW
Two Felbridge organisations that always work together well to combine to stage an annual horticultural show in the village. They are the Felbridge Horticultural Society and the Womens Institute.
They usually stage a summer show, but this year, for a change decided on an autumn show, and it was held in the Felbridge Institute on Saturday in better weather then is usually experienced in the height of an English summer!
The Judges verdict on the show Good Show!
The Institute presented a colourful scene for the 241 entries. The only real disappointment was the very small number of entries in the classes open to children.
Mr G. Handley is always a prolific winner at the Felbridge shows and Saturday was no exception. He again retained the Coronation Cup, presented by Wing Commander and Mrs J. S. Phillips for gaining the most points in the sections for vegetables, flowers and fruit.
Mr F. Warner was runner up with the next highest total of points and third was Mr C. W. Wheeler.
The Womens Institute Cup, awarded for the most points in the other three sections open to adults, went to Mrs Wheeler, Mrs Tutt and Mrs E. Roberts tied for the next highest number of marks and were followed by Mrs Butterworth.
The Judges
The judges were Mr M. Compton (vegetables, flowers and fruit), Mrs W. Ingwersen (floral arrangement), Miss Bagot and Miss Knight (cookery, jams and wine) and Miss Letchworth (knitting and needlework).
Much of the success of the show is due to the work of Mrs A. Edgerton, on behalf of the Womens Institute, and Wing Commander Phillips for the Horticultural Society. They were ably assisted by a hardworking committee consisting of Mrs R. H. Back, Mrs C. Randall, Mrs Acason, Mrs Ford, Mrs R. Pearson, Mr A. C. Acason, Mr C. W. Wheeler and Mr W. Parnell.
Mr Parnell won half a bottle of whisky in a competition and offered it for auction to swell the funds. It fetched £1 1s. Mrs Edgerton was the winner of a cake, and also offered it back to help the show and this raised a further 10s. Mrs Parnell also won eggs in a competition and Mr A. J. Edgerton won a chicken.
Dr Joan Godfrey presented the prizes.
VEGETABLES
Collection of vegetables 1. F. Warner, 2. W.T. Westgate, 3. C.W. Wheeler. Round potatoes 1. T. Pentecost, 2. A. Morley, 3. W.T. Westgate. Kidney potatoes 1. C.W. Wheeler, 2. T. Pentecost, 3. A.T. Morley. Runner beans 1. Mrs Roberts, 2. Mrs Morley, 3. G. Handley. Turnips 2. W.T. Westgate. Carrots 1. F. Warner, 2. G. Handley, 3. Mrs Morley. Shallots 1. F. Warner, 2. G. Handley, 3. C.W. Wheeler. Onions 1. 1. G. Handley, 2. T. Pentecost, 3. Mrs J. Lake. Globe beetroot 1. J.W. Durrant, 2. W.T. Westgate, 3. G. Handley. Special prizes in this section F. Warner and T. Pentecost.
FLOWERS
Medium flowered dahlias 1. G. Handley, 2. Mrs Shephard, 3. T. Pentecost. Pompom dahlias 1. G. Handley, 2. T. Pentecost. Outdoor disbudded chrysanthemums 1. F. Warner, 2. G. Handley, 3. Mrs F. Warner. Roses 1. Mrs F. Warner, 2. Mrs Ford, 3. Mrs Fowler. Gladioli 1. G. Handley. Michaelmas daisies 1. Mrs F. Warner, 2. Mrs Shephard, 3. G. Handley. Mixed garden flowers 1. F. Warner, 2. Mrs Shephard, 3. G. Handley. Special prizes in this section F. Warner (2).
FRUIT
Dessert apples 1. Mrs E. Roberts, 2. G. Handley, 3. Mrs G. Fowler. Culinary apples 1. T. Pentecost, 2. R. Parks, 3. G. Handley. Dessert plums 1. C.W. Wheeler, 2. T. Pentecost. Cultivated blackberries 1. G. Handley, 2. C.W. Wheeler. Special prizes in this section C.W. Wheeler.
FLOWER ARRANGEMENT
Miniature flower arrangement 1. Mrs Edgerton, 2. Mrs Handley, 3. Miss K.G. Johnston. Floral arrangement of flowers and foliage 1. Mrs Edgerton, 2. Mrs Ford, 3. Mrs Warner. Table centre 1. Mrs Edgerton, 2. Mrs Wheeler, 3. Mrs Tutt. Special prizes in this section Mrs Edgerton.
COOKERY, JAMS AND WINE
Treacle tart 1. Mrs E. Roberts, 2. Mrs Parks, 3. Mrs Wheeler. Sausage rolls 1. Mrs E. Roberts, 2. Mrs Butterworth, 3. Mrs Brooker. Cake 1. Miss Paddle, 2. Mrs Butterworth, 3. Mrs Tutt. Rock cakes 1. Mrs Butterworth, 2. Mrs Tutt, 3. Mrs Bird. Plain scones 1. Mrs Warner, 2. Mrs Buckland, 3. Mrs E. Roberts. Last seasons jam 1. Miss Kelminster, 2. Mrs Tutt, 3. Mrs Wheeler. New seasons plum jam 1. Mrs Wheeler, 2. Mrs Parks, 3. Miss Kelminster. Orange marmalade 1. Mrs Parks, 2. Mrs Acason, 3. Miss Paddle. Baked custard 1. Mrs Wheeler, 2. Mrs Richardson, 3. Mrs Tutt. Lemon curd 1. Mrs Wheeler, 2. Mrs Duck, 3. Miss Johnston. Home-made wine 1. Mrs Barton, 2. Mrs E. Roberts. Boiled potatoes 1. Mrs Agates, 2. Mrs Warner, 3. Mrs Tutt. Special prizes in this section Mrs Agates and Mrs Barton. Diplomas, Miss Paddle, Mrs Butterworth and Mrs Tutt. Highly commended Mrs Lake and Mrs Wheeler.
KNITTING AND NEEDLEWORK
Any article containing 5oz. of three ply wool 1. Mrs E. Roberts, 2. Mrs Butterworth. 3. Mrs Richardson. Pair of bed socks 1. Mrs Richardson, 2. Mrs Handley, 3. Mrs Wheeler. Hot water bottle cover 1. Mrs Handley, 2. Mrs Wheeler. Embroidered tray cloth 1. Mrs B.D. Roberts, 2. Mrs Acason, 3. Mrs Handley. Soft toy 1. Mrs Wheeler, 2. Mrs Handley. Special prizes in this section Mrs B.D. Roberts and Mrs E. Roberts.
CHILDREN
Handwriting (9-11 years) 1. Angela Cook, 2. T. Tutt.
Jar of wild flowers and grasses 1. Angela Cook.
Taken from the East Grinstead Observer, 1959
SUPER SHOW DRAWS 350 ENTRIES
Felbridge Horticultural Society had a near record total of 350 entries in their Autumn Flower Show on Saturday at the Village Hall.
Mr Arthur Rider (show secretary) said at the close of the show The judges were most impressed with the major sections and saw a great improvement. Felbridge is doing very well and it is a joy to see such a fine exhibition.
His wife then presented the prizes. The William Parnell Memorial Cup was won by Mr P. Agates, who gained the most points in the vegetable, fruit and flower and flower arrangement classes.
THE JUDGES
The Banksian Medal, presented by the Royal Horticultural Society for the winner of the largest amount of prize money, was gained by Mr F. Warner.
Treasurer, Mr J. C. Walker, said This is definitely one of the highest number of entries we have had.
Mr Rider excelled himself by winning first prize in the home-made bread class, he also judged the honey classes, and Mr Charles Newton, who judged the wine section, came first in the flower arrangement class.
Other judges were Mr H. J. Pattenden, Mr B. G. Compton, Mrs V. Garton and Mrs J. Francis.
RESULTS
Vegetables arrangement: 1 Mrs D. Crawford, 2, Mr Pentecost, 3 P. Agates. Potatoes: 1 P. Agates, 2 Mr Warner, 3 Mr Handley. Beetroot: 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mr Wheeler, 3 Mr Pentecost. Carrots: 1 Mr Handley, 2 Mr Ledger. Onions: 1 Mr Pentecost, 2 P. Agates, 3 Mrs Crawford. Shallots: 1 Mr Pentecost, 2 Mr Handley, 3 Mr Meopham. Any other root vegetable: 1 Mr Meopham, 2 Mr Ledger. Leeks: 1 P. Agates, 2 Mr Pentecost, 3 Mrs Crawford. Runner beans: 1 P. Agates, 2 Mr Warner, 3 C. Newton. Tomatoes: 1 P. Agates, 2 Mr Warner, 3 Mr Handley. Any other vegetable: 1 Mr Handley, 2 Mrs D. Crawford, 3, Mr Warner.
Fruit apples, cooking: 1 A. Rider, 2 Mr Gamble, 3 Mrs Clarke. Dessert: 1 P. Agate, 2 Mr Fowler, 3 Mr Hinckley. Any other fruit: 1 P. Agates, 2 A. Rider, 3 Mr Ledger.
Flowers chrysanthemum sprays: 1 P. Agate, 2 Mr Warner, 3 Mr Handley. Blooms: 1 P. Agate, 2 Mr Fowler, 3 Mr Pentecost. Pot plant: 1 Mr Ledger, 2 Mr Standing. Cactus: Mrs Clarke, 2 Mr Handley, 3 Mr Gamble. Succulent: 1 Mr Drake, 2 Mr Ledge, 3 Mr Gamble. Foliage: 1 Mr Pentecost, 2 Mr Wheeler, 3 Mr Ledger. Michaelmas daisies: 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mr Ledger, 3 Mr Ripley. Dahlias, decorative: 1 Mr Ripley, 2 Mr Handley, 3 Mr Tufton. Cactus: 1 Mr Searle, 2 Mr Ripley, 3 P. Agates. Pompom: 1 Mr Ripley, 2 Mr Tufton, 3 Mr Fowler. Tea rose: 1 P. Agates, 2 Mr Newton, 3 Mr Verrier. Three roses: 1 Mr Ledge, 2 Mr Newton, 3 Mr Verrier. Floribunda: 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mr Ledger, 3 Mrs Clarke. Mixed flowers, 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mr Agates, 3 Mr Marchant.
Flower arrangements flower foliage: 1 C. Newton, 2 Mrs Standing, 3 Mrs Marchant. Autumn material: 1 Mrs Woodard, 2 Mrs Standing, 3 Mrs J. Roberts. Miniature: 1 Mrs Woodard, 2 Mrs Roberts, 3 Mrs Standing. Basket: 1 Mrs Marchant, 2 Mrs Woodard.
Domestic home-made bread: 1 A. Rider, 2 Mrs P. Agates. Victoria jam sponge: 1 Mrs Agates, 2 Mrs. F. Warner. Scones: 1 Mrs Gamble, 2 Mrs Standing, 3 Mrs Barlow. Fruit pie: 1 Mrs H. Goodwin, 2 Mrs Chittenden. Rock cakes: 1 Mrs Foster, 2 Mrs Maynard. Jam, soft fruit: 1 Mrs Standing, 2 Mrs Hinckley, 3 Mrs Barlow. Hard: 1 Mrs Clarke, 2 Mrs Hinckley, 3 Mrs Wheeler.
Jelly: 1 Mrs Standing, 2 Mrs Marchant, 3 Mrs Goodwin. Bottled: 1 Miss Robinson, 2 Mrs Sayer, 3 Mrs Rider. Mixed pickles: 2 Mrs Wheeler. Wine: 1 Mrs Goodwin, 2 Mr Goodwin. Savoury flan: 1 Mrs Goodwin, 2 Mrs Agates. Honey, clear: 1 Miss A. de Condi, 2 Mrs Monk. Dark: 1 Miss A. de Condi, 2, Mrs Mitchell. Crystal: 2 Miss A. de Condi.
Children (14 and under) arrangement of flowers: 1 D. Ripley, 2 Miss Verrier. Flower heads: 1 D. Ripley, 2 P. Hillman, 3 A. Roberts. Blackberries: 1 D. Barlow, 2 P. Hillman. Vegetable or fruit object: 1 A. Roberts, 2 G. Roberts.
Taken from the East Grinstead Observer, October 1967
Percy is top gardener
Mr Percy Agates of Beechwood, Crawley Down Road, Felbridge, won the Societys Cup at the Felbridge and District Horticultural Society Summer Flower Show in the Village Hall on Saturday.
The cup is awarded annually to the member gaining the most number of points in the flower, fruit, vegetable and floral arrangement sections.
Entries for the show were up on last year, and a total of 255 exhibits were judged by Mr Compton and Mr Pattenden (flowers, fruit and vegetables), and Mrs Francis (cooking).
After the show the Societys Chairman Mr C. E. Newton said Both the number of entries and the standard of entries rose this year, and the judges were very pleased with the show as a whole.
He added that the secretary now had a steady membership of about 170.
Special prizes were won by: Mrs Crawford (vegetables), Mr F Warner (fruit, gooseberries), Mr Agates (flowers, Delphiniums), Mrs F Warner (frontal flower arrangement), Mrs Agates (cooking), Andrew Stone (childrens wildflowers).
RESULTS
Cabbage lettuce: 1 Mr C E Newton, 2 Mrs Handley, 3 Mr P Oliver. Salad vegetables: 1 Mr P Agates. Carrots: 1 Mrs Crawford, 2 Mr F Warner. Herbs: 1 Mrs K Hudson, 2 Mr Newton, 3 Miss Westwood. Broad beans: 1 Mr Oliver, 2 Mr B Foss, 3 Miss Chatfield. Cabbages: 1 Mr Agates. Peas: 1 Mrs Crawford, 2 Mrs Walker, 3 Mr Agates. New potatoes: 1 Mrs Handley, 2 Mr F Warner.
Raspberries: 1 Miss Simmons, 2 Mrs Wickenden, 3 Miss Marchant. Strawberries: 1 Mr Foss.
Gooseberries: 1 Mr F Warner, 2 Miss B Roberts. Red or white currants: 1 Mr Foss. Black currants: 1 Mrs Wheeler, 2 Mrs Warner. Rhubarb: 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mrs Wheeler.
FLOWERS
Sweet peas: 1 Mr Agates, 2 Mrs Crawford, 3 Mr Foss. Hybrid tea rose specimen: 1 Mr Newton, 2 Mrs Chandler, 3 Mrs Leigh. Tea rose (vase of five): 1 Mr Newton, 2 Mr Foss, 3 Mrs Leigh. Floribunda roses: 1 Mr P Davey, 2 Mrs Leigh, 3 Mrs Macpherson. Rambler or climbing rose: 1 Mrs Macpherson, 2 Mr Warner, 3 Mr J Drake. Mixed: 1 Mr Warner, 2 Mrs Shepherd. Sweet Williams: 1 Mr Agates. Lilies: 1 Miss Westwood, 2 Mr Warner. Pansies or violas: 1 Shepherd, 2 Mrs Leigh, 3 Mrs Warner. Delphiniums (3 stems): 1 Mr Agates. Delphinium (one specimen): 1 Simmons, 2 Mr Drake, 3 Miss Maynard. Pot plant for foliage: 1 Mr Drake, 2 Mrs Clarke. Fuchsia: 1 Mrs Drake. Floral arrangement one colour: 1 Miss Wallis, 2 Andrew Stone. Frontal: 1 Mrs S Richardson, 2 Miss Wallis. Shell: 1 Mrs Roberts, 2 Mrs Shepherd. Posy: 1 Miss Wallis.
DOMESTIC
Baked custard: 1 Mrs Roberts, 2 Mrs Walker, 2 Mrs Wheeler. Jam tarts: 1 Mrs Wareham. Shortbread: 1 Miss Maynard, 2 Mrs Walker. Sponge: 1 Mrs Barton, 2 Miss Maynard, 3 Mrs Walker.
Gingerbread: 1 Mrs Crawford, 2 Mr Agates, 3 Mr Oliver. Pot plant in flower: Miss Agate, 2 Mrs Roberts, 3 Miss Maynard.
[Incomplete, the rest of Domestic and Childrens Section missing]
Taken from the East Grinstead Observer, October 1968
FIRST TIME DAVID COMES OUT ON TOP
A first time entrant was one of the top winners at the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society flower and vegetable show on Saturday.
Mr David Newman won the Societys cup for the highest number of points in the show and the Banksian Medal as winner of the largest amount of prize money.
Mr Newman, 32, of Haywardens, Lingfield, said: I am very pleased that I won. I had six exhibits of pot plants and vegetables and won four firsts and a second.
John Steveson, aged 11, won the Childrens cup. His entries ranged from a garden on a plate, a floral posy, potato family coconut pyramids and decorated egg.
John of Rowplatt Lane, Felbridge, said: I didnt expect to win. This is the first time I have won a cup in a competition.
Seventy-seven year old Mrs Winifred Parnell, of Rowplatt Lane, was another winner. She gained two first places and a second for her exhibits of flowers.
Mrs Parnell is the widow of the late Mr William Parnell who was vice-chairman for the society.
The society present the Parnell cup at the show in memory of Mr Parnell. It was won jointly by Mrs Betty Lowe of Crawley Down Road, Felbridge, and Mrs M. Austin who gained the highest number of points in the domestic section.
There were 193 entries which was down by 32 per cent on last years figures.
The show secretary Mrs Betty Knight, said: The wet weather washed out a lot of potential exhibits for the fruit section. The flower section was also affected by the weather.
RESULTS: TROPHIES
Societys Cup and Banksian Medal, Mr D. Newman; Newton Cup for roses, Mrs M. Austin; Childrens Cup, John Stevenson; Red Ribbon Award, Mrs L. Neal; Flora Award, Mrs E. Roberts; Parnell Cup, Mrs B. Lowe and Mrs M. Austin.
CLASSES: Asters, Mrs D. Smith; dahlias, Mrs B. Boorer; dahlias, Mrs D. Davis; roses, Mrs M. Austin; roses, Mrs H. Sutton; roses, Mrs R. Forward.
Any other flowers including shrubs, Mrs D. Smith; annuals, Mrs W. Parnell; mixed cut flowers collections, Mrs W. Parnell; pot plants in bloom, Mrs L. Neal; pot plant in foliage, Mrs D. Newman; cactus or succulent, Mrs D. Newman; any stone fruit, Mrs D. Newman.
Runner beans, Mrs B. Knight; beetroot, Mr R. Lowe; cabbage, Mr R. Lowe, carrots, Mr D. Newman; cucumbers, Mr E. Warren; marrows, Mr E. Bavin; onions, Mr E. Bavin; potatoes, Mr R. Lowe; shallots, Mr D. Newman.
Any other vegetables, Mr J. Yeats; miniature floral arrangement, Mrs B. Stevenson; arrangement, Mrs B. Knight; all green arrangement, Mrs E. Roberts; table arrangement, Mrs Wareham; jam, Mrs E. Roberts; marmalade, Mrs B. Lowe; lemon curd, Mrs J. Walker; sweet chutney, Mrs B. Drake.
Supper dish, Mrs M. Austin; Swiss roll, Gillian Roberts; lemon meringue pie, Mrs S. Warren; party sweet, Mrs B. Lowe; bottle of wine, Mrs S. Warren; garden on a plate, Alison Roberts; floral posy, John Stevenson; potato family, John Stevenson; coconut pyramids, Timothy Weaver; chocolate fudge, John Stevenson; decorated egg, Geta Young.
Taken from the East Grinstead Observer, 7th September 1977
Show brings record entry
The sun may not have been shinning on Saturday afternoon but there was a place where the flowers were in brilliant display.
Those people who ventured out in the pouring rain to visit the horticultural show at Felbridge swopped grey skies above for colourfully contrasting vistas in village hall.
While standards in the various classes were well up to expectations in Felbridge village hall there was a disappointing drop in the number of entries, but even then they overflowed from the main hall into the side room where the appetising home-made bakings, jams and wines were displayed along with the childrens section.
The show was well attended, despite the bad weather, with flurries of customers at various side tables where cakes, plants, fruit and vegetables were on sale. The raffle prizes included a useful pair of long handled shears.
Competition among the flower and vegetable growers was sharp. Although Mr John Winslow collected most prize money and point with his 12 entries, he could not be awarded the Banksian Medal having held it for the past two years. But was able to take home the Paice Trophy, the shows top award.
Under the Royal Horticultural Society rules, the medal went to the next in line Mr Mick Gyselynck, the Felbridge societys honorary vice-chairman, who with four entries fewer managed to come a close second.
Other main awards went to: Mrs J. Stoner (red ribbon for the most outstanding fruit, veg or flowers, and the Dahlia cup), Mr R. Haynes (Mortlock cup for the best pot plant), Mr J. Winslow (Warner cup for the best vegetables), Mrs J. Champness (Rose bowl). Mrs E. Fisher (Parnell cup for most domestic points) and Miss A. F. Jones (Austin handicrafts trophy).
The cups for best childrens entries went to Fiona Champness (up to seven years olds), and Sarah Capon (8-12 years).
Mrs E. Roberts was awarded the Felbridge WI cup for the best floral arrangement, domestic and handicraft exhibited by members.
Taken from the East Grinstead Courier, 18th September, 1986
Sun brings out the gardeners
The annual summer show held by the Felbridge and District Horticultural Society at the weekend drew a fair number of entries despite the recent wet weather, which dampened the standard of competition in certain areas.
The event reported a low number of entries in the categories of sweet peas and roses, and in the latter case, most growers had difficulty preventing their flowers from opening too far.
But was a problem more or less over come by Mr Maurice Wright who had the monopoly of the rose event which saw him pick up the Newton Cup for best single rose. Mr Wright also won the Lowe cup for the largest number of points overall.
Other double successes were gained by Mr Norman Maynard for pot plants and the three-bloom rose events, and Mrs Nadia Smith for outdoor cut flowers and her magnificent floral arrangement, Golden Wedding Anniversary. But for Mrs Joan Walker it was a day of frustration, a slight mathematical misjudgement leaving her strawberry display one fruit short and her entry disqualified.
The show was also notable for the complete absence of entries from juniors, there being apparent problems of recruitment in this department.
Results
Lowe Cup, Mr M. Wright. Newton Cup, Mr M. Wright. Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society Diploma for Floral Art, Mrs N. Smith.
Rose HT (1 vase Rambler or Climber), 1 Mr M. Wright, 2 Mr C. W. Fisher, 3 Mr D. Madigan; Rose Single, 1 Mr M. Wright, 2 Mr N. Maynard, 3 Dr P. F. Mattingly; Rose 3 blooms, 1 Mr N. Maynard, 2 Mrs J. Locke, 3 Mr M. Wright; Rose Floribunda, 1 Mr H. Skinner, 2 Mr C. W. Fisher; Delphiniums, 1 Mrs Northcott, 2 Mrs N. Smith; Sweet Peas, 2 Mrs E. Roberts.
Sweet Williams, 1 Mrs J. Locke, 2 Mrs D. E. Smith; Flowering Shrub, 1 Mr M. Wright, 2 Mr N. Maynard, 3 Mrs D. E. Smith; Pot Plant, 1 Mr N. Maynard, 2 Mrs D. E. Smith; Pot foliage, 1 Mr R. Taylor.
Hanging Basket, 1 Mr C. W. Fisher; Outdoor Cut flowers, 1 Mrs N. Smith, 2 Mrs E. Roberts, 3 Mrs D. Hilton; Floral Arrangement, 1 Mrs N. Smith; Strawberries, Disqualified.
Sausage rolls, 1 Mrs E. Skinner, 2 Mrs J. Walker; Cherry Cake, 1 Mrs E. Fisher, 2 Mrs J. Locke.
Abridge by the removal of the East Grinstead Horticultural Society write-up in the same article, taken from a local newspaper, 9th July 1987
ROSY OUTLOOK
As fair profits double
INFLATION may be up but so is the generosity of the public who gave so much when they went to the Felbridge Fair and flower show last weekend that they doubled profit takings!
Now in its fourth year organisers found that they had made a whopping £2,000 when they came to count the takings double the takings previous figures.
Chief organiser, Linda Hainge, said The fair was very successful this year. Wed like to thank everybody who came along and turned the fair into the most successful ever.
The flower and vegetable show was reported a big success with 140 entries almost doubled in two years. Officials were surprised at the number of roses entered but there were no delphiniums or sweet Williams because the hot summer had brought them on early.
Awards went to: Ray Lowe Cup, Mrs B West for the highest number of points. Newton Cup, Mr E Maynard for the best rose specimen. Certificate of Merit, Mr Madigan. Floral Arrangement Class, Mrs C Holland. Childrens classes, Katherine Graves with Lucinda Graves and James Holland tied second.
Instead of the usual hanging baskets section there was a patio pot competition which resulted in some glorious entries.
The judge, Mr David Newman, thought the standards were very high.
Taken from East Grinstead Observer, July, 1989
From pot plants to floral art
Awards and prizes at Felbridge and District Horticultural Society Autumn Show were:
Paice Trophy for most points in sections: S. J. Gerrrard; RHS Banksian medal for most points in horticultural sections: S. J. Gerrard; Warner Cup for most points in vegetable section D: A. Rolfe; Rose bowl for most points in floral art section E: E. Pearson and J. Oldacre; Austin Trophy for most points in handicraft section G: E. Polhill; Childrens Cup for most points in handicraft section H: Ann Morgan; Childrens Cup for most points in handicraft section I: Rebecca Wright.
Best in Show. The Mortlock Cup, outstanding pot plant for quality and effect section A: L. P. Learnly; Mary Sayers Trophy, best exhibit in fuchsia classes A 14-16: P. Brinkley; Dahlia Cup best exhibit section B 20-27: E. Parsons; Chairmans Challenge Cup, best collection of vegetables on a tray: J. Crisp; £3 voucher for best exhibit in floral art section E 70-76: J. Oldacre; Berys West Memorial Plate for best exhibit in section D: P. Brinkley.
Taken from the East Grinstead Courier, 13th September 1996
Show success for village
It was business as usual for the organisers of the Felbridge Horticultural Societys summer show, judging by Saturdays successful day.
With plenty of produce on offer and a good number of people attending, committee member, Eileen Parsons, said, There were plenty of nice exhibits, but we always get the same people entering each year.
We need more people interested to come along and show their produce.
Eileen has previously been chairman of the committee, which is now headed by Anne Learney.
In the 12 years I have been involved, we have had good days and bad days, said Eileen.
She added It is a shame that other societies have had to stop because of lack of interest, but we seem to be going strong still. We are optimistic.
Some of the horticultural enthusiasts who did well and received more than one trophy included Peter Brinkley, Sidney Gerrard and John Crisp.
Results:
Paice trophy: John Crisp; Banksian medal: John Crisp; Mortlock cup: Iris Gerrard; Berys West Memorial trophy; Pepter Brinkley; Berys West Memorial plate: Peter Brinkley; Dahlia cup: John Brown; Newton cup: Phil Learney; Warner cup: Sidney Gerrard; chairmans challenge cup: Sidney Gerrard; rose bowl: Phil Learney; Parnell cup: Eileen Alderson; Victoria sponge cup: Rita Vincent; Ray Lowe cup: Phil Learney; Austin trophy John Crisp.
Taken from a local newspaper, 6th September 2001
Cake contest
Gardeners and cake makers put their skills to the test in a bid to win a prize at Felbridge Horticultural Societys late summer show.
The village hall was full of 250 exhibits on Saturday August 20, and exhibitors.
Eileen Parson pictured wowed the judges with her Victoria sponge.
Taken from East Grinstead Observer, 1st September 2011
Felbridge & District Horticultural Society and the Future
The FDHS, having reached it 60th year, has a membership of 60, few of whom are under 60. If the society is to grow and flourish it needs to attract new and younger members, so to this end, the committee and membership are currently considering a number of proposals for meetings and shows of the future.
Finally, there has been an exciting development. Under the wing of the FDHS, the seeds have been sown for the creation of Felbridge Allotments. There are long waiting lists for all the allotment sites in the surrounding areas and increasing interest in Grow Your Own. Local allotments will raise the profile of the FDHS in the area and have the potential to attract new members. This will be another legacy left by the current members in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Felbridge & District Horticultural Society. As the motto of the society says
Help the Felbridge & District Society to Grow
Bibliography
General
Felbridge Parish and People
Felbridge & District Horticultural Society Year Books, 1984 2011
Royal Horticultural Society
Tradition of horticulture and eminent gardeners in Felbridge
Felbridge Place sale catalogues, 1911, 1914, 1918, FHA
Felbridge Fruit Farm and Crowe, Handout, Felmere, JIC/SJC 03/07, FHWS
Felbridge Nurseries, Handout, Little Gibbshaven, SJC 07/08, FHWS
Poupart, Handouts, Handouts, Park Corner Farm, SJC 05/09, and Little Gibbshaven, SJC 07/08, FHWS
Womens Farm and Garden Union, Handout, Poultry Farming in Felbridge, SJC 05/11, FHWS
Women Rule the Plot by P King
Hogger and Millard, Handout, Three More Biographies from the Churchyard of St Johns, Felbridge, SJC 09/10, FHWS
Handout, Felbridge Herb Gathers, SJC 01/04, FHWS
Felbridge Village Produce Association, Handout, Wartime Memories of Felbridge, SJC 11/05, FHWS
Felbridge Horticultural Society grows out of Village Produce Association
Felbridge Parish and People, 1976 edition
Parish Magazine, 1953, FHA
Church News, 1957, FHA
Judge like the Exhibits, EGO, Sept. 1955, FHA
The Verdict Good Show, EGO 1968, FHA
Parish Registers of St Johns, Felbridge
Super Show draws 350 entries, EGO Oct. 1965, FHA
Percy is Top Gardener, EGO, Oct, 1968, FHA
Further reading:
Back Handout, Three More Biographies from the churchyard of St John the Divine, SJC 09/10, FHWS
Glover, Phillips & Phillips Handout, Civil Parish of Felbridge, SJC 03/03, FHWS
Pentecost Handout, Acacia Cottage, SO 07/03, FHWS
Wheeler Handout, Shopping in Felbridge, Pt. I, SJC07/10, FHWS
Affiliated Member
FDHS Year Books, 1984 -2011
RHS
Annual Subscription and Privileges
FDHS Year Books, 1984 -2011
Origins of Cups and Awards
FDHS Year books 1984 2011
Joseph Banks, Encyclopaedia Britannica
A brief history of the Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society, Nov. 1993, FHA
Judge like the Exhibits, EGO, Sept. 1955, FHA
The Verdict Good Show, EGO 1968, FHA
Parish Registers of St Johns, Felbridge
BMD Indexes, www.ancestry.co.uk
Super Show draws 350 entries, EGO Oct. 1965, FHA
Percy is Top Gardener, EGO, Oct, 1968, FHA
Current Competition Sections
FDHS Year Book
Members Gardens in Felbridge
Sparkys Jungle, magazine article from Amateur Gardener, 22.10.05, FHA
Invitation to the jungle, EGC 2007, FHA
FDHS Annual Felbridge Village Open Gardens Day, 1.07.07, FHA
Gardens raise £1k, Local newspaper article, 5.07.07, FHA
Gardens open to raise cash for Hospice, Local newspaper article, 21.06.07, FHA
Gardens Open, Local newspaper article, 28.06.07, FHA
Entries in yellow book, Local newspaper article, 28.02.08, FHA
Open Gardens Day, Local newspaper article, 29.05.08, FHA
Garden opening, Local newspaper article, 31.07.08, FHA
Event raises £3,000 for charities, Local newspaper article, 14.08.08, FHA
Garden open for charity, Local newspaper article, 25.06.09, FHA
Open Gardens Event, Local newspaper article, 9.07.09, FHA
Felbridge & District Horticultural Society Gardening Tips
Members of the FDHS, FHA
Newspaper Cuttings
The verdict on it Good Show, EGO, 1959, FHA
Supper Show draws 350 entries, EGO, Oct. 1967, FHA
Percy is top gardener, EGO, Oct. 1968, FHA
First time David comes out on Top, EGO, 7th September, 1977, FHA
Show brings record entry, EGC, 18th September, 1986, FHA
Sun brings out the gardeners, Local newspaper article, 9th July 1987, FHA
Rosy Outlook. EGO, July, 1989, FHA
From pot plants to floral art, EGC, 13th September 1996, FHA
Show success for village, Local newspaper, 6th September 2001, FHA
Cake contest, EGO, 1st September 2011, FHA
Key to abbreviations
EDC East Grinstead Courier
EGO East Grinstead Observer
FDHS Felbridge & District Horticultural Society
FHA Felbridge History Archive
FHG Felbridge History Group
FHWS Felbridge History Web Site
GRBS Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society
P(GRBS) Perennial (Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society)
RHS Royal Horticultural Society
WI Womens Institute
Texts of all Handouts referred to in this document can be found on FHG website: www.felbridge.org.uk
SJC 09/11