On 8th October, Rutland Flower Club hosted it's annual open meeting, welcoming members to attend an evening of floral demonstrations, a raffle to win a selection of beautiful arrangements and the opportunity to create spectacular floral displays. 

Held at Rutland County Museum, the open meeting was officially opened by Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, introducing the event and reminding guests of just a few of the exciting things the club has in store. 

Some of these include the club's 65th anniversary celebration next year and supporting events for the 80th anniversary celebrations for VE Day and VJ Day. 

The inside of Rutland County Museum was adorned with beautiful arrangements of flowers, including the Club's horseshoe. 

As well as flowers decorating the space when members arrived, there was the opportunity to create floral arrangements following a demonstration. (Photo: Rutland Flower Club)

Andrew Key delivered a stunning floral demonstration, inspired by the "Colours of Autumn", as well as telling some amusing anecdotes about his experiences within the flower arranging community. As Chairman of the North Midlands Area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS), Andrew has visited a lot of different flower-related clubs and had many tales to tell. 

By the end of the evening, the museum was decorated with beautiful floral displays, all utilising the colours of Autumn. These included arrangements on the theme 'steampunk', as well as the creation of a floral tribute the recently passed Dame Maggie Smith, specifically focussing on her role in Downton Abbey. 

A tribute to the inspiring work of Dame Maggie Smith throughout her career. (Photo: Rutland Flower Club)

The Flower Club is looking forward to returning nearer to Christmas when it will be holding it's popular Festive Fun with Flowers Christmas Workshop. 

For more information about Rutland Flower Club, how to become a member and details about how to attend future demonstrations, contact Sue Sewell on 07771537705 or email: [email protected] .