Despite what has felt like weeks of relentless rain, the Kennet Valley Group enjoyed a truly delightful and memorable day out on their annual visit to Welford Park to see the stunning snowdrops.

As if arranged especially for us, the weather gifted a rare and most welcome break in the clouds, allowing everyone to wander the grounds and take in the breathtaking display at its very best — even more impressive than last year’s showing. Drifts of delicate white blooms stretched as far as the eye could see, and once downwind, the air carried a wonderfully subtle fragrance that made the experience even more magical.

With several hundred species of snowdrops in existence, the ever-popular Galanthus nivalis is considered the most common, though many cultivars originate from specimens brought back from the Crimea and Turkey in the latter half of the nineteenth century. There was certainly an impressive variety on display, giving everyone plenty to admire and discuss.

After a well-earned cuppa, members took a short and enjoyable drive to The Five Bells for a superb lunch filled with lively conversation and much laughter — perfectly timed as the rain decided to make its return once again.