On Tuesday evening, Lamphey Local History Society enjoyed an extremely interesting talk by Debbie Drewett on the history and future development of the Stackpole Walled Garden.

Debbie is manager and her job entails far more than any of us had ever imagined. She dealt briefly with the history, much of which we knew. The sad destruction of the house by Huw Cambell is remembered by locals, but the later destruction of the wonderful greenhouses was not well known.

Debbie explained why the gardens are no longer known as the Mencap gardens, the arrangement they have with the National Trust, and the on-going struggle for funding. The latest venture is the shop and café and for anyone who hasn't visited yet, it is well worth a visit. Much of the food served in the café is grown in the gardens and everything else is bought locally.

We were all left with the feeling that the gardens are in capable hands and we hope Debbie stays in her job for a long time!

Our next meeting is on Tuesday, November 11, at 7.30 pm in the Church Hall.

NB: The Church Hall is close to the Railway Station, not the Village Hall.

R.G.