Compton Verney Country Garden Fair – A quick review!

I thought I’d assemble a short post to show my appreciation for all the hard work and support that people gave towards our first Country Garden Fair at Compton Verney. I’m relieved to say it was a success, and all ran smoothly.

The day started in fine form with bright sunshine which was very welcome after the unreliable previous weeks. Suppliers arrived bright and early, setting up in their alloted spaces which included both the Adam Hall and courtyard, and in no time at all stock was displayed, machines lined up, and even a teepee broke the familiarity of the front lawn.

A fascinating range of suppliers from pet portraits and wood turners, through garden pottery and honey, plants and antique garden tools; all featured in the fair. Thankfully, the fair was supported not only by our regular visitors but also new ones; who we hope enjoyed their first visit to Compton Verney.

A huge team effort helped pull everything together, along with a few favours called in, and over all the event had a great feel-good factor and was received positively. I particularly enjoyed the focus on plants the fair created, for, as a grounds team we only presently focus on plant purchase and planting. The fair brought the occasion to acquire plants for display and sale, and for this I am indebted to Charlecote Fruit and Flowers, Bernhard’s Nurseries and particularly to Rimo Growers, who all went out of their way to support the event. Rimo in particular brought a huge range of plant material to exhibit in the courtyard – a stunning arrangement of quality plants.

Jenny & Mo, Grounds Volunteers at Compton Verney help me to display the plants.

Before I finish up, I just want to give thanks to the retail and management and security teams, who encountered much extra work in preparation and hosting of the event. Lastly, but by no means least, my thanks to the grounds team, staff and volunteers alike who gave up their free time to support the country garden fair – once all has been considered, we hope to be back again next year – hopefully bigger and better!

Thanks again, Happy Gardening!

Gary