OPEN garden: The Coach House, in Sherfield, opened its garden gates again last Saturday, under the National Garden Scheme, raising funds for a range of charities.

Fifty-five visitors ignored the occasional rain showers and enjoyed home-made tea and cakes. The garden wowed visitors with its imaginative herbaceous planting. One visitor commented that the borders were as ‘good as any stately home’. Another commented how the garden had inspired her to think again about ornamental grasses, which looked wonderful in large pots.

BARN Dance: Natalie says: “Last Saturday, we danced to The Diatonics Ceilidh Band and the music was excellent. The barbecue was enjoyed by all and was well received, in spite of the weather. We had a full bar as well as real ale from the local brewery. We were pleased to have members of the local morris sides Hook Eagles, BasingClog Morris and Fleet Ladies.”