Horticultural Society AGM

LEIGH Horticultural Society President Jim Sanctuary opened the 2026 AGM this March by congratulating the membership on an eminently successful centenary year in 2025, and thanked the committee for their work.
“He reminded the gathering of the mental and physical benefits of gardening. Despite a wet start to 2026, Mr Sanctuary noted that the emergence of Spring buds and bulbs were a heart-warming sight, bringing joy, optimism and hope for a productive year to come.
The current officers presented their reports on the year and three new committee members were elected unanimously: Lousie Tothill, Penny Oswald and Sam Rakusen. Janet Starkey will take on the role of Meetings Secretary.
Chairman Julia Tetley also highlighted the success of the centenary celebrations, especially the summer tea in Porters’ gardens, money raised from which had been donated to the Dandelion Suite at Southend Hospital. The Society had also contributed financially to the new mosaic at Leigh Library.
Other successful events had been the open gardens trail, the winter talks and Christmas party. Admission to the talks will be £3 for 2026. Shows throughout the year had been well-organised by Jill Crosby and Angela Kinsey-Foden. Anna Watson had worked hard managing the tearoom on show days and requested homemade cakes from the members, while membership secretary Lesley Sammon asked members to inform her if their contact details changed.
Six coach outings, organised by Nick Pugh, had been enjoyed by many members and their guests. Mr Sanctuary continued to produce ‘The Link’ magazine five times a year, and invited contributions. Publicity officer Judith Williams encouraged members to visit the Society’s Facebook and Instagram pages to keep informed of activities and events.
Ms Tetley, echoing Mr Sanctuary’s hope for a happy gardening year to come, then presented the annual awards for 2025.
The next event on the Society’s calendar will be the Spring Show on Saturday 28th March at Leigh Road Baptist Church, with free admission for members and just £3 for visitors. Doors open at 2.00pm and everyone is very welcome.
Read more
Visit: https://leigh-on-sea.news
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighonsea.news
X : @leighonsea_news
Contact us: https://leigh-on-sea.news/contact-us
Email: [email protected]