The September meeting of Melksham and District Flower Arrangement Society saw the annual club competitions with the theme being This Bounteous Land.

They were judged by area chairman Mary Keily who congratulated the club on the high standard achieved. The results were:

* A basket of flowers (Novice Class): 1 Sheena Sainsury, 2 Vivienne Watson, 3 Heath Harris; VHC Christine Brown and Mary Saunders. 

*Shades of Autumn: 1 Rosalyn Clarke; 2 Polly Moore; 3 Caroline Smyth 

*A walk in the woods: 1 Nancy Newman; 2 Ann Burgess; 3 Judy Joiner

* A kitchen delight (imposed): 1 Sandra Highfield; 2 Polly Moore; 3 Joyce Swanson.

* A Herbaceous Border: 1 Christine Oughton, 2 Sylvia Bennett; 3 Nancy Newman

* Seasonal Delights: 1 Kay King; 2 Nancy Newman

* Beachcombing: 1 Kay King; 2 Patsy Williamson

* A land of Plenty (Photo) 1 Nancy Newman; 2 Rosalyn Clarke.

The trophy for the Best Use of Colour was awarded to Vivienne Watson and the overall points winner was Nancy Newman. The president, Ann Burgess, presented the trophies.

In the afternoon, Nicky Heale who had kindly stepped in because of illness gave the club an inspiring demonstration entitled Creative Creations.

Nicky specialises in manipulating leaves and creating either exciting shapes out of phormium leaves or palms and platting; he made flower roses with them, which adds to the overall texture and effect of his arrangements.

Using quite rustic containers from a cider barrel, a pottery jar and wooden trug which he had made and a milk churn, he produced a selection of arrangements using lovely autumn shades and berries to the muted pinks and mauves of autumn.

Everyone enjoyed his demonstration and Shirley Alistair gave the vote of thanks.

The next meeting will be on October 21 at 2pm at Spencers Sports and Social Club, Beanacre Road, Melksham. For further details, contact Rosalyn Clarke on 01225 705007.