Britain in Bloom

Yesterday we were able to wander round our urban village, Oxton, and visit 30 or so secret gardens. It was the 30th year that the Oxton Society had staged this event, but the first time we had been able to make it in the seven years we have lived here.

It was staggering to see the variety and complexity of some of the layouts, as well as marvel at some of the houses which are usually hidden behind locked gates and high walls. It also showed us how much there was to Oxton that we had yet to explore.

We discovered unmade lanes with sandstone walls, long winding drives with night lights, small schools tucked away behind huge rhododendron bushes and an array of properties ranging from the mid to late 1800s through the war years to some modern day infills and blocks of flats.

For this one day of the year though, they had all made an effort, even those not included in the chosen 30, by leaving gates open and making front gardens at least a sight to behold.

Many gardens had something to offer in terms of layout, textural usage or planting structure, although most could have benefited by labelling the less common plants which they used, to help those of us who were looking for something different which would survive in the heavy clay and harsh North Westerly wind.

The pick of the bunch, however, was that which was 28 Christchurch Road. The site was originally the vicarage garden for Christ Church opposite, but the garden fell into disrepair and was sold off with planning permission for a house to be built. The vicarage was turned into flats, and that could have been the end of it. The people who brought the plot, however, were aware that the garden had been magical, with grotto';s waterfalls and much else besides. They researched and found the original plans and have now re-created a very impressive place. It is one of the gardens which opens on charity days, so we will probably pop back on 14th June when next it is available.

Full marks must go to the Liver Morrish Dancers who banged out three sets during the day. I do suspect they were getting a bit tipsy by the time they did the 3pm performance, but as its a dying pastime shunned by the youth of today, it was good nonetheless to see them perform with such enthusiasm.

All in all a good four hours spent, during which we met all our neighbours, who we only see when we are all out and about at such a time......