On Monday 15th November 2022 two of the founding members of the Earlsdon Gardening Club retired after an impressive 26 years on the committee.

Liz Campbell and Denis Crowley were part of the group that founded the club in 1996 with Denis taking on the role of Treasurer and Liz organising social events. They’ve undertaken these roles with dedication and enthusiasm ever since and have been pivotal in building and maintaining the success of the club.

In 1997 Liz also became the local organiser for the NGS Open Gardens scheme and has built this into a popular local event every May. Liz and Denis’ garden has always been one of the highlights of this event, helping to raise over £50,000 for charity over the years.

Another successful venture that continues every September is the Earlsdon Flower and Produce Show. Denis was instrumental in starting this up in association with the local allotment societies and has been a keen (and successful) competitor ever since.

In the Spring of 2011 Liz and Denis visited Myton Hospice at Walsgrave to look at the garden there. A lot of work was needed to make the gardens look attractive for the patients and so with a small team of volunteers Liz and Denis started the work of creating something special. That work continues today thanks to the volunteers and gifts of plants and equipment from local people, plus donations of cash from the takings at club raffles and the coin jar.

Its not always apparent just how much goes on behind the scenes to run a successful club and all the other associated activities such as outings, holidays, the produce show and open gardens, nor how much forethought and effort Liz and Denis have put into these hidden activities. In recognition of this the Club took the opportunity to present them with gifts on behalf of members past and present and express their gratitude for all their dedication over the last 26 years.