DEREK Luther was the guest speaker for the January meeting, and spoke on What We Expect From Fuchsias.

His talk was very entertaining.

He told members that he used to be a fireman, but it seems that his love of everything to do with fuchsias has taken over his life.

He is an active member of the British Fuchsia Society and gives talks and judges competitions throughout the country.

He gave a demonstration on taking cuttings and suggested putting three cuttings in a 50/50 mix of moss peat and perlite, which is a very good medium to assist rooting, cover with a polythene bag and place them out of direct sunlight.

He also talked at length on bonsai fuchsias and how they are exhibited and judged at shows. Derek had an easy manner and his humour and enthusiasm for his subject was boundless, so members enjoyed a good evening.