PEOPLE flocked to Flaxley Village Hall to hear experts talking about wildflower meadows, followed by walks to examine some nearby examples.
The walks took an hour and a half, taking in open field meadows belonging to Dr Chris Parsons, who was one of the expert speakers, and several orchards including one area of old apple and plum trees that is of special wildlife value.
Although most meadow flowers come later in the year there were wood-anemones, cowslips, twayblades, primroses and bluebells on show. Chris explained how the land is managed for meadow plants and the insects and birds that rely on them.
After the walks most people went back to Flaxley Schoolroons for refreshments. The steering committee introduced themselves and explained their plans for the group.
Members who have some ground will be entitled to a botanical survey and informal advice on managing it as a meadow and the group's website http://www.deanmeadows.org.uk">www.deanmeadows.org.uk will have a forum to allow members to share experiences and help each other.
In the near future Chris Parsons' meadows at The Meeting House, Flaxley, will be open to all from 2pm to 5pm on the afternoons of May 7, 14, 21 and 28.
Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust has an orchid evening at Clarkes Pool Meadow, Blakeney, also on May 28 from 6.30pm. Other events will be posted on the website.
Anyone interested in the meadows group can join via the website or contact Derek Foster on 01452 760296.