On Thursday 20th April 16 members enjoyed a sunny, spring afternoon visi:ng Haldon Grange, Dunchideock, a peaceful and well established 20 acre garden, parts of which date back to the 1770’s. Owners Ted and Mary Pythian have handed over the work of maintaining and developing it to their son, Andrew, who is the sole gardener! He gave us a comprehensive guided tour around this hugely impressive family gem, which boasts one of the largest collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and camellias. The garden also contains many mature and rare trees, including the 300 year old Haldon Oak and is complemented by a lake fed by a stream cascading through ponds. The view up the large lawn, containing rare Waxcap Fungi, to the house was stunning with a Japanese Maple framing a carpet of bluebells, fritillaries and other wildflowers. From the top of the recently planted 6 acre arboretum there are splendid views towards Exeter and Woodbury across the red Devon soil. Below the trees, Andrew has planted large ar:s:c circles containing, respectively, lilacs, magnolias and bird rhododendrons, which, when mature, will be amazing. After our instructive walk through this lovely garden, members enjoyed a welcome tea with the choice of a variety of delicious cakes, and there was an opportunity to buy plants raised by Andrew.