Gardens and Gateaux – August 2025

This year we visited some lovely places and the weather was very good most of the time.

Some trips by car and some by coach, but all in the company of some lovely people.

The group presently consists of 39 members, and although we don’t all go on the same trips, many are well attended.

Anyone thinking of joining us for one or more great days out next year, just put your name forward at any time to receive programme updates and the opportunity to join in.

Already thinking about next year, I’m hoping the group will operate in a slightly different way.

Trip organisers will be required to “sell” their ideas to the other members at the monthly planning meetings as usual, but when a destination is agreed, they will also need to decide on the mode of transport and make any necessary arrangements. These could include contacting the venue to confirm dates and any discounts, booking a coach and taking names. Or something as simple as finding train / bus times.

Until such time as someone wishes to take over, I will remain as the groups convenor and will be able to assist with group communication; publicising trips on our website and in the newsletter; as well as coordinating some activities.

With the group running in this way, we should be able to do more trips overall. We have enough members to do numerous trips with many varied destinations and modes of transport.

Barry Baker, Groups Coordinator

Photos credit: Barry Baker