WET weather failed to dampen the spirits of members of Halwill Garden Club when they visited the Eastern Hill Farm bluebell woods near Dunsford.

It was the first outing of the year for the club. Although conditions were muddy underfoot, members enjoyed the walk past hundreds of newly planted trees and two wildlife ponds filled with frogspawn. They entered the wood where there were many bluebells, primroses, wood anemones and pink orchids.

Returning to the Countryside Centre for a welcome lunch they then indulged in some retail therapy at the craft stalls which were set up in the barn, the venue for a number of craft workshops.

The woods are open annually at bluebell time for charity. More information on countrysidecrafts.org.uk

The garden club meets on the third Tuesday of each month — the next meeting is on Tuesday June 15 and anyone with even the smallest interest in gardening is welcome.