Members of the Stamford Flower Club celebrated their 70th anniversary on Monday with flower arranging and afternoon tea with special guests.
Since their establishment in 1956 the organisation has blossomed into a rich and thriving community, with 95 current members who meet monthly for expert demonstrations and other floral activities.
The group is part of the North Midlands Area branch of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) and are well known for their bicycle displays around the town which are often themed.
Chair of the Stamford Club Viv Cunningham said: “It’s a very special day for the club.
“Sadly some clubs are closing these days, so for us to have such a flourishing membership is brilliant.”
Special invitees to the event included James Burnside - National President of NAFAS- who travelled from Belfast for the celebrations. The Stamford Mayor Jane Kingman was also in attendance, with Joseph Massie, an award winning floral designer, providing the demonstration for the afternoon.
In his toast Burnside congratulated the club on their achievements and the work of the generations who have come together in their love of flowers.
He said: “Over seven decades the club has flourished because of the enthusiasm, dedication and generosity of the members past and present.”
He also commended the group on their hospitality and the beauty of Stamford.
An inaugural member of the club was in attendance and there was a moment to reflect on the recent passing of another original participant.
The group is looking forwards the next 70 years of friendship, education and connection but rely on new members joining to continue their healthy membership and legacy.
Cunningham spoke of the relationships she has built through the club and said: “You do not have to be a flower arranger, you can just appreciate flowers.”
She also explained that other groups are closing due to a lack of committee members and hopes to soon have a Vice President to assist in the organisation of the Stamford association.
Before the attendees enjoyed their afternoon tea they had a special demonstration by Joseph Massie who has won five RHS Gold Medals at various Chelsea Flower Shows, owns a floral design studio and received a commission for The White House.
Police arrest two teenagers over assault in Oakham
Weekend sports round up
