Following the success of the 2007 Llanover Garden School programme, I am delighted to announce details of the talks, demonstrations and workshops planned in 2008 & 2009.

Whether you are a hands-on garden-owner who longs to learn and put into practice new ideas, or someone who simply enjoys hearing expert gardeners in a glorious setting, Llanover has a day to suit you.

The workshops have been very popular. Although they are often over-subscribed, I have resisted the urge to increase the group sizes. Much of their charm depends on their intimacy: if we keep numbers down, the teacher has a chance to talk to everyone individually. So do book early if you want to be sure of getting a place.

Susie Edwards has run four workshops here and gave an outstanding demonstration last December when she created over 25 different floral designs. These ranged from simple and effective table decorations which could be made throughout the year to a Christmas tree decorated with Gloriosa Rothschildiana. Each of the designs was raffled, raising almost £200 for Breast Cancer Haven. I am delighted that she has agreed to return to Llanover this year, as her professionalism, skill and imagination are outstanding.

Many of you come from afar with a friend, so to help you reduce your fuel costs, four people who book and come together in one car can purchase four tickets for a day at the reduced price of £250. Gift vouchers for days at the Garden School are available to give as Christmas, birthday or occasional presents. Each day starts with coffee from 10am, includes a morning talk, delicious lunch with wine, a second lecture or demonstration, and finishes with a home made tea at about 3.30pm.

With best wishes

           Elizabeth Murray