On a blistering hot Friday afternoon late in June, 17 of our members travelled to Houghton Lodge Gardens for a leisurely afternoon.  Yes, it was very hot – the Red/Amber warnings continued, which had resulted in a few last-minute cancellations.  Nevertheless, Houghton Lodge did all they could to keep us comfortable.  Our members had come along in their summer finery along with hats, parasols or umbrellas to shield themselves from the hot sun.  Many strolled through the gardens, and some were brave enough to go down to the river where they enjoyed a welcome breeze.

Then it was back for the promise of afternoon tea.  Despite being assured the glass house would be air-conditioned and cool it was rather hot and stuffy, but the tearoom staff were every obliging.  They took the tables outside to the terrace, along with big umbrellas, re-laid the table and served each of us with a scone, jam, cream and even butter along with a welcome cup of tea for most of us.  Some asked for coffee.  It was all very delicious and funded by the Pamela King Bursary with members contributing towards the refreshments.

Our President Lynne then welcomed everyone and thanked Lynda for organising the afternoon.  Our Secretary distributed the monthly memory joggers reminding us of future events, including our trip to Kew Gardens on 06 August. 

Roger Goldstone, husband of our Programme Secretary, Lynda, had come to our rescue and sorted out our Programmes for 2026-2027.  Thank you Roger – hope you enjoyed the spare scone! 

Earlier in the month our walking group took a ramble around Chilbolton, whilst many of our regulars couldn’t make it, we welcomed a new addition to our strollers.  Lunch at the Abbots Mitre followed.

Our next meeting is on 30 July when we will be welcoming Alan Jones, formerly of the BBC, who is going to tell us Tales of a Roving Reporter.  We will be starting our meeting in Abbotts Ann War Memorial Hall at 7.30 p.m. – as always, we welcome non-members, we just ask for £5 entry to include refreshments.

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