What a month we have had. So, so much rain – not so much fun for our gardeners (or public) but the gardens are certainly enjoying it as they are looking particularly beautiful!
Rain aside, July has brought a few new things to the gardens.
Bee Keeping Workshop at Marwood Hill Gardens
The 1st July saw the wonderfully talented Lynne Dougall, who is Marwood’s Chief Beekeeper (along with her equally talented husband, Rob), give a talk to 50 volunteers, staff, season ticket holders and public. The talk was fascinating, not only giving advice on how to become a beekeeper and what is involved, but also highlighting the importance of bees in the UK, and the risks they are facing! The feedback has been so positive that we are hoping to have more talks and maybe even a beekeeping session or two in the future – we may even hire a bigger space next time.
Marwood Pop Up Pub at Marwood Hill Gardens
For those of you who live locally, you may already be familiar with Marwood’s Pop Up Pub that is normally held in the village hall. Last month, the 21st July to be exact, was the first time that the pop up pub was held in Marwood Hill Gardens and needless to say, it was a great success! The weather stayed dry (for the most part), beer was drunk, Pimms was drunk, and no-one ended up in the lake! We’re also delighted to announce that the pop-up pub will be back in the Gardens on the 18th August – please feel free to come along and tell your friends!
Folksy Outdoor Theatre at Marwood Hill Gardens
We were equally as lucky with the weather for the first of the Folky Outdoor Theatre performances! The crowd must have done something right, as the cloud cleared to show blue sky and sunshine for the entire performance (which was also sold out!). Spectators were treated to a story of marriage, wealth, jealousy and lies. Falstaff, who is down on his luck, decides to restore his fortunes by seducing the wives of two wealthy merchants. The wives, however outsmart Falstaff and discover he sent them both identical letters and take revenge by playing tricks on him! This comic humiliation of a foolish, would-be seducer was filled with joyous live music, audience participation and colourful characters. We can’t wait to see what Folksy bring next year.
Folksy can back to Marwood Hill Gardens, in slightly damper weather at the of the month for their performance of the Ugly Duckling. Despite the weather, we had a good crowd clap and dance their way through the performance. Next year, however, we are going to change the Children’s friendly Folksy theatre to a slightly older play – we are currently thinking something along the lines of Quentin Blake?
Volunteer Thank You Do at Marwood Hill Gardens
We capped the month off with a celebration of our incredibly awesome, hardworking volunteers. I think every member of staff would agree that Marwood could not, and would not be the same without our volunteers, who tireless give up their time and energy to make Marwood what it is. John Snowdon, Marwood Hill Gardens owner agrees, and threw a little thank you do for them. During the event, he acknowledged their effort and dedication – from those who garden and weed, to those chopping logs and tree, to running the admission booth and even helping out in the tearoom. Thank you to everyone who came and helped us drink Pimm’s and eat the spread of food (some of us were still munching on cheese and crackers for a good few days after!). Even if we don’t say it every day, thank you and we think you are wonderful!
If you are interested in joining the Marwood volunteers, please get in touch with me by email or phone!
01271 342 528 or info@marwoodhillgarden.co.uk
