Shropshire and Staffordshire National Trust Volunteers

The weekend’s roving reporter, made it to Morville on Sunday for the group’s last visit to the Hall whilst under the tenancy of Mel and Andrew.

Mel wanted to leave the garden looking pristine, so sharp edges and weed-free borders were the tasks of the day. There was also the small matter of several hedges to cut.

Such was the lure of the cakes, that seventeen members came prepared to tackle the numerous jobs Mel had lined up. The first logistical task was getting the large NT ladders from nearby Dudmaston. Thanks to Neil and Jackie with their caravanning expertise, for providing the means to tow the Dudmaston trailer – even if it was a smaller trailer than we all expected!

First to get working were John, Neil and Richard continuing with the task from last month trimming back the climbers and shrubs on the front right hand side of the Hall.

Soon on their hands and knees were Paul and Sharon weeding the flower beds in the White garden followed soon after by Jill and Lucy.

Gordon and Lisa got stuck into the rose bush whilst Russell tackled the weeds, brambles and cleavers on the bank at the side of the rotating summer house.

With Ann and Matt isolating themselves from the rest of the group, they took charge of the bonfire, ably assisted by Chris on delivery duties which lasted all day.

That left Joel, Jackie, Lucy #2 and your reporter to cut the hornbeam and laurel hedges around the White garden.

With all busy on a warm but not hot day it was soon time for cake o’clock. As usual Mel provided a choice of teas, cakes were victoria sponge or flapjacks, with an added glut of strawberries from Sharon and Paul’s garden to share.

With the workday leader cracking the whip, the break was soon over and work continued apace.

After lunch more workers moved into the White garden to weed the remaining beds. The front of house team took over the laurel hedge.

As time pressed on it was obvious the planned finish time was not going to be achieved on the laurel hedge and extra resources were added to complete a square, straight and consistent look.

By four o’clock all the tasks for the day were  completed, rubbish burned or stacked up by the bonfire site and tools accounted for.

Mel was again overwhelmed by the amount achieved and the final appearance of the gardens.

As she served the tea of lemon cake, ginger, chocolate brownies and flapjacks for our final time, Russell presented her and the family with a leaving card signed by all.

I think the gardens Iook much better now than when Mel and Andrew arrived – with a little help from the Group – at least that’s my opinion. What next we wonder?

Best wishes in your new Shropshire home from all at SSNTV!

Peter O.