Early Spring Show held at Myddelton House on 12th February 2011

The BIS held its first show of the season at the new venue of Myddelton House, the famous garden of the late E A Bowles. It was with some trepidation that the venue was agreed, principally because of the soft cream coloured carpet. It has been known for the odd pot to be spilled! However, all went smoothly and we would like to thank Lynn, the House Keeper, for her assistance and to Andrew Turvey for the arrangements.

The historic interior of Myddelton House gave a new atmosphere to the show which was appreciated. Despite the coldest winter for many years, there were plenty of entries. It was good to see a new exhibitor, Peter Hurren, who took five firsts - a very promising start. As well as the Reticulata irises there was a good range of Crocus including a pristine display by Roger Holland who gave the appropriate and enthralling lecture "E A Bowles and his Crocuses". Roger is Chairman of the Bowles Society and also Custodian of the National Collection of Crocuses.

The Best in Show went to the Show Secretary, Peter Taggart, for his exhibit of Iris kolpakowskiana 'Solo'. This species is found on stony slopes in Central Russia and is a difficult plant to keep in cultivation in our climate. Another notable eye-catching 'feature' of the show was the waistcoat of Sidney Linnegar given to him by the New Zealand Iris Society after his recent judging during their convention - he even made the front page!

It was only on leaving that we learned that this was the first flower show to be held at Myddelton House since the death of Bowles and it was a pleasure to take part in such a historic event.

The next show is 30th April again at Myddelton House, open to the public between 12.00-4.00pm and the talk at 2pm will be "Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Myddelton House Garden" by the Head Gardener, Andrew Turvey whose self-motivation is evident in the current restoration. A garden tour will follow - subject to weather. The replanted kitchen garden will be re-opened by then.

Alun Whitehead