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Castle florist’s carnival display wins gold
A colourful floral interpretation of a Rio carnival float won Leeds Castle’s florist a prize at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. It was the first time Louise Roots had entered the prestigious competition, run by the Royal Horticultural Society, in which she received a gold award. She said: “I am overwhelmed to win an award on my first attempt at exhibiting at a flower show. “My ambition for this year was to get on the competition circuit so to be awarded gold is an unexpected honour.” The 360 degree design represents the bold colours, music and costumes from the Rio Carnival, using tall purple delphiniums to resemble extravagant plumes from carnival costumes. It also features gold dragons created by Leeds Castle’s carpenter Colin Swain. The award winning design is now on display at the Hampton Court Palace until Sunday. and their habitats from an expert. Weather permitting, spot and identify some of the common and possibly rarer species of chalk grassland habitat at a Mid Kent reserve. Particularly suitable for beginners. At Tyland Barn and Local Reserves and run by Bryan Bullen, Naturalist A study day for beginners wishing to learn more about the type of wildlife they can successfully capture with basic equipment. Classroom studies and practical demonstration led by Ian Andrews, Professional Photographer. Leaders are knowledgeable in their own topics but are also pleased to discuss other points of interest as these arise. We aim to create a relaxed atmosphere in which everyone can progress at their own speed. All can enjoy the company of others with similar interests. Normal fee per person per day is £27, £5 off for Kent Wildlife Trust registered volunteers, senior citizens, unemployed and students. Booking Wildlife Study Days, to save time please send the full fee when booking. You will be sent details of the day, together with information on where to meet, what to bring etc. If your chosen day is fully booked we will return your cheque. There is an administration charge of £5 if you cancel a booking at the time. Please note that there will be no refund or transfer to another day, if you give less than 10 working days notice of cancellation. For details contact Tyland Barn on 01622 662012. Correspondent: Marian Reader, 33 Ringwood Road, Maidstone, ME15 7EG Mob: 07711 811066 Tel: 01622 746249 marianreader@ blueyonder.co.uk St Martins Church: On Saturday, July 9, St Martins Flower Ladies are holding a mini market at the church in Northumberland Road, from 10am -noon, with gifts, cards, raffle, tombola, books on sale as well as refreshments. Outside if fine, inside if wet. Support our flower group. All are welcome. Information from 01622 730015. Also the next Men’s Breakfast at St Hilary House, off Senacre Square, will be held at 9am this Saturday July 9. For information call 01622 676282.