GARDENING enthusiasts have heard about the work of an historic garden trust.

The latest Machynlleth and District Garden Club meeting heard from Simon Baynes, chairman of the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust (WHGT).

Mr Baynes – who is also mayor of Llanfyllin – talked to members about the trust's work in Montgomeryshire and mid Wales.

Brian Hopewell, the club's activities secretary, said: “Everyone seemed to enjoy the talk and it created a lot of interest.

"It was very good to see former WHGT trustee and resident Joy Neal with Simon at the talk. Thank you also for the souvenir photograph!”

Mr Baynes spoke about how he was encouraged in his own interest in gardening when growing up at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel in Llanwddyn by hotel owner, Jamie Moir.

He also said that WHGT website, http://whgt.wales/ , is thriving across Wales with 10 branches and membership rising at five per year.

Next year is the 30th anniversary of the trust – whose patron is the Prince of Wales – which will provide an opportunity to celebrate WHGT’s work in protecting the heritage of parks and gardens across Wales.

Mr Baynes said: “Thank you to the members of the Machynlleth and District Garden Club for such a friendly welcome and for three people kindly joining as new WHGT members.

"I was very impressed by the size and breadth of activities of the garden club and wish it every continued success in the future."