Staplecross

Wodens Wood, Cripps Corner

Students on a course at Great Dixter swelled the audience of the Ewhurst, Staplecross and Bodiam Garden Society at the May meeting, when Caroline Jackson gave a talk on herbs and medicinal plants. She started by giving a different impression of our gardens, explaining that they are in fact “war zones”. Plants build up resistance to disease and insects, to survive she said. She had a number of plants to illustrate those poisonous to humans as well as those used over the centuries for cure remedies. It was fascinating to discover that centuries ago when women conversant with herbal cures passed down from many years through families were considered witches and suffered terrible fates, whereas in Germany herbalists were recognised for their herbal cures and today doctors incorporate these plants and their good uses in their training.

The June meeting will take place on Saturday 15 when the Rose Show will be held in the village hall at 2.00pm. Chairman reminded members that she welcomed all those who had not previously exhibited to “have a go” and enter.

Pilates classes resume on Tuesday at 5.00pm in the village hall.

Those who have marked their calendars and diaries for June 8 for an open garden in Ewhurst Green, should make a change to Sunday June 9. It was discovered that Winchelsea has eight gardens open to the public on Saturday June 8, so arrangements have been changed. “Preachers”, Ewhurst Green, reputed to be the oldest house in the parish will be opening its gates for viewers to see its attractive gardens. They will be open between 10.30am and 4.30pm on Sunday June 9, when coffees teas and lunches will be available in the garden.

A table sale is planned for Saturday June 1 in the village hall. Now is an opportunity to sort out all those “come in handy” items you think you might use and never do and to get recycling. Tables to rent at £8 per 4ft table and anyone with crafts to sell or likes baking could also make some pin money. Setting up time for tables is 8.30am, with doors open from 10am to 2pm. Booking to Hilary on 01580-830704. There will be a tombola and Hilary is looking for suitable items for this stall.