Strathpeffer gardeners beat storm to deliver £5500 boost at open event
STORM Floris was a bitter blow to green-fingered gurus - but no match for Strathpeffer’s resilient gardeners.
Last weekend’s Mediterranean weather drew over 500 people to Strathpeffer’s Open Garden event –
StrathPetal – raising nearly £5500 for the village’s environmental projects and Alzheimer Scotland.
That was despite many picking up the pieces after gardens were ravaged by storm force winds.
Alison Munro-White, member of the organising team said: “Our hearts were in our boots after
Storm Floris wreaked havoc 10 days before the event, but participating garden owners showed huge stoicism and, wow, how we were rewarded weather-wise!
“We worked hard on the feedback we got from last year’s event, in terms of maps and signage, and
we hope those attending enjoyed the benefits.”
It proved a bumper day for village cafes and shops, with some reporting record sales, while two nurseries –Abriachan and Highland Liliums - did a brisk trade in the village square.
Janet Bowen, also on the organising team said: “I think the musicians who played each day in the square, plus added features such as the bus transport and exhibits in St Anne’s Church, really made it a wonderful event.
“We’ve had so many lovely compliments from those who attended – they all seemed to be having a very happy time, and that was a big part of our objective!
“We’re grateful to the organisations that supported us with funding donations: the Mackenzie New York Villa Trust; HCES Allt Dearg and Albyn Housing Association, as
well as all those who volunteered, baked and played, and particularly all those who came in such numbers to support the event.
“We all really enjoyed their company and the interest they showed in Strathpeffer’s gardens.”