A CHIPPING Sodbury based flower arrangement society has celebrated its 50th anniversary.


Committee members of the Sodbury and District Flower Arrangement Society celebrated their 50th anniversary on Tuesday, March, 10 by gathering at the Old Grammar School in the town and enjoying a buffet and anniversary cake.


The event saw president Marlene Tooth, chairman and treasurer Pauline Holder, vice chairman Rosemary Cummins, and secretary Carol Nelson, together with six committee members and 40 club members, celebrate the club's 50th anniversary.


Alison Connor, publicity officer, said: "This very active club started 50 years ago with a small group of 10 people, meeting in the late Richard Arnolds lounge and forming the Chipping Sodbury Flower Club.

"The club transformed into Sodbury and District Flower Arrangement Society and is now affiliated to the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS).


"It has grown over the years and at its peek had over 100 members . The late Her Grace the Duchess of Beaufort was invited to be president, a task she carried out for over 24 years.


"Over the years we have been invited to under take many church flower festivals all within the South Gloucestershire area. The club has decorated Wapley church on many occasions and last year decorated Horton Church, for which we received many accolades.


"The club continues to thrive and the society meet at the Old Grammar School, with practice evenings on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, where members receive tuition and new members of all age groups are welcome."