THERE was a call for some young blood when Thornbury Horticultural Society held its annual meeting at the Armstrong Hall last Friday.

Emphasising the need for more younger members, chairman Tony Lines emphasised the average age of existing members was rising, with a number well over the age of 65.

Mr Lines reported that 2004 had been a successful year with events being well-supported, although costs had increased all around.

Public liability insurance premiums had risen and, despite a cost cutting exercise, the society had experienced a small deficit during the year.

Mr Lines expressed appreciation of his hard-working committee and the flower show helpers and supporters. He singled out for special praise flower show secretary Janet Lines and president Doreen Palmer who had organised two interesting coach outings.

The year had been a particularly memorable year for Mr Lines and his family as he was awarded the MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list. He thanked the members for their congratulations as the society was one of the three organisations that had supported the nomination for his award.

In his report the treasurer stated the need for a further reduction in costs and hopefully an increase in income. It was agreed not to engrave the flower show cups in future.

All officers and committee members were re-elected with the exception of Mr and Mrs Rodney Walker due to health problems.

The chairman expressed his grateful thanks for all their hard work over many years.

At the request of the chairman, members agreed to elect a second vice-chairman and a deputy flower show secretary. Ruth Kitson was elected second vice-chairman and Dot Culverhouse, deputy flower show secretary.

Members of the committee have been asked to update the society rules and produce a new draft constitution to reflect the present day conditions experienced by the society, during 2005. The chairman said it would be present at the next annual meeting in 2006 for ratification.

Following the business of the meeting an interesting talk was given by Rex Davis on Dahlias, their history, propagation, varieties and presentation at flower shows.

The society's next activity is the members' evening on Saturday, February 26 (7pm) in the Cossham Hall. This will be followed by the spring flower show on Saturday, March 12 (1.30pm) in the Armstrong Hall.