The Cathedral Flower Guild's brief for the arrangements for the Installation of the Archbishop was for the arrangements to have a mix of greenery which could include some budded branches or some flowering branches coming towards flowering and a sense of new life. We were also requested not to use floral foam. Thus, the arrangements were to be 'sustainable'.
 
The greenery was primarily sourced locally. Members of the Flower Guild collected greenery from gardens in the Cathedral Precincts. We also obtained much from our own gardens and friends' gardens, who generously allowed us to pick. There is a deep sense of pride with some gardeners when they know their greenery is being used in the Cathedral. 
Since we were only using 'greenery' we looked for vegetation of differing colours and interesting forms. It was also selected carefully, well-conditioned and prepared so that it would last well. This was especially important for the ruff on the pulpit where the greenery was all wired and without water so that the painted wood was not damaged.
 
The different blossoms were observed over the weeks prior to the installation. The result was that some blossom (mainly cherry) in bud and just coming out was included in some of the arrangements.
 
There were 3 huge pedestals, 2 arrangements by the Archbishop’s throne and the ruff. All the arrangements were done without floral foam.  Instead, we used structures called Canterburies that had been stored since they were last used by the Cathedral Flower Guild 25-30 years ago. These are metal tubes welded together to create a framework to support the stems within the container. Alongside these we used long poles for height with cones covered in moss, and also wire.  This was the first time most of us had used mechanics of this sort so it required thought and team work to get it right but generated good friendships too.
 
When the arrangements were taken down any greenery that was good and would last another 2 -3 weeks was retained to be used in the Easter flower arrangements at the Cathedral. The other greenery was shredded to be used by the Cathedral Gardeners.
 
The whole event was an exciting challenge in which we were very well supported by the Cathedral staff.  The outcome was impressive and very well received.'

Deal & District Flower Club was proud to host a fundraising sale on Saturday 4th April in support of the Landmark Centre rejuvenation project. As the club has called this much loved venue its home for many years, it felt especially meaningful to help in this way.
Drawing on the flower clubs skills and creativity members prepared a beautiful selection of Spring and Easter themed floral items . The event was well supported by members and the impressive  grand total raised was over £550!
Every contribution big or small helps bring new life to this once grand historic building which sits in the heart of a vibrant community. One that Deal & District Flower Club are very much part of .