Firstly, may I thank all those that sent me cards or messages of support and kindness last week. I was truly overwhelmed by the lovely memories that many of you recounted of those that knew mum and their recollections of her serving at Tuppenny Barn. We had a lovely service for her at Chidham Church and the family were most touched by the amount of people within the congregation. Thank you also for bearing with us and the closure of Friday’s shop.

This week we have the Stansted Garden Show to prepare for as it is this coming Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We will be having a stall in the Home and Garden Marquee so please do come and say hello if you are attending the show. It is a lovely event with lots of great stalls and very much a family focussed event.

This Saturday I have get to have my judging hat on as I have been asked to judge the miniature garden competition that they are running at Oakwood school. I am always enthusiastic to support anything that promotes gardening for children so look forward to carrying out my duties at the event.

Looking at dates in the diary, on Saturday 16th June, I am running my edible flowers and unusual salad leaf growing workshop for anyone that would like to know more about either. There will be recipes given out as well as growing tips and seeds to take away. Booking can be made via https://bit.ly/2nJ4yxv. The following weekend on Sunday 24th we will be holding our annual open day at Tuppenny Barn. This is the annual occasion where we let the public look around the site to see the work we do, let them look at the produce we grow and we let people PYO in our very large soft fruit cage. This year we will also be showcasing some rural crafts with crafts people joining us for the event to demonstrate what they make. There is also the favourite cream tea tent for everyone to enjoy with lots of lovely homemade refreshments. There will also be activities for the children to participate in. Please do put the date in the diary.