Ann Deacon extended a warm welcome to everyone present to the May meeting of Merched y Bont, held recently at the Victoria Hall, Llanwrtyd, writes Elin Mabbutt.

Ann wished members who were unwell a speedy recovery and expressed sincere sympathy to Mrs Barbara Jones on her recent and sad bereavement.

Merched y Bont members have again been asked to help prepare refreshments for the competitors at the Man v Horse forthcoming event and if not already done so, members should give their names to Kath McCann, should they be able to help out.

The guest speaker for the evening was Velma Hutchinson of Derwendeg who gave a demonstration on the planting up of a hanging basket and a small pot for a patio table, sharing her expertise and giving us many useful and practical tips.

Velma had brought along samples of planted up pots of various plants including annuals, perennials and edibles showing what is achievable for a small space including just a window box. She suggested a variety of suitable plants, some of which included Osteospermum, Bacopa, Red Field Poppy, Cornflowers, Calendula and Labelia. Ann Deacon thanked Velma for a most enjoyable demonstration.

Velma kindly raffled some of the completed items which she had made and the lucky winners of the prizes were Peri Emirali, Sheila Ambrose, Freda James and Rosemary Pryce.

Merched y Bont meetings are held at 7pm at the Victoria Hall in Llanwrtyd every second Thursday each month, and new members are always welcome.