Where were you born and where did you spend most of your childhood?

Lynda-BellI was born in Christchurch and lived here until I was twenty when I moved to Blenheim and nannied on a high country station. I then did my nursing training at Wairau Hospital.  I then went on my OE and returned to Christchurch permanently in late 1984.

Where do you live now and with whom?

Richard and I and our two boy’s Daniel 22 and, Martin 18 reside in Tai Tapu about 3 kms from our home the Grange which is under going major earthquake repairs. Our two older children have left home.

What aroused your interest in gardening or horticulture?

My maternal grandmother Mrs Robinson or Robbie as she was better known was a life member of the Horticultural Society and a judge and teacher of floral art. Green and white arrangements where her favourites.  I spent a lot of my holidays with her and my grandfather in town where I followed Nana around when she did big pedestal arrangements for the shows. Once I remember her doing one at the University when the Queen was visiting.  Sadly I did not inherit her passion for floral art however I did become a very keen gardener. They had a big garden at Rakaia Huts where they loved to fish but the garden was Nana’s over-riding love where she grew most of the flowers and foliage for her floral work. My grandfather had a huge veggie garden and supplied the whole family. I always remember them being very generous.

What gardening or horticultural interests do you have now?

I belong to the Horticultural Society, am on the National Executive of Heritage Roses and belong to the Broadfield Garden Club. I have had big gardens since I was married and have always put my own stamp on them.

What’s your favourite plant and why?

My favourite plant is the rose as it has such a variety of species, colours, leaf types and even thorns and hips.

What’s been your most challenging and/or rewarding gardening project ?

Starting a garden from scratch is always more challenging than re-vamping an existing garden. My most rewarding gardening project has been developing a stumpery.

When did you join the CHS and why?

I have been a member of the CHS consistently for at least 10 years probably nearer to 15 years.

What is your passion for the future of the CHS?

My passion for the future of the CHS is to bring like minded people together .