MADAM, What a lovely surprise to win tickets to the Good Food and Gardeners' World Live shows, both of which are our passions. To quote Wallace and Grommit: "we had a grand day out."

The weather started fine so we began by looking at the gardens. Several had ideas that could be incorporated into most gardens irrespective of size. One in particular, "Smoke and Mirrors", had two large mirrors back to back which made the small garden appear very much larger, and planting was continued under the mirrors so it appeared to be a continuous stunning floral bed. The marquee was also brimming with ideas, and we admired agapanthus, gladioli, and colourful chrysanthemums; and sought advice about calla lilies and sowing soybean seeds. The bonsai display was especially impressive, with many trees over 50 years old – one exhibit, an azalea tree around three feet tall, was in spectacular full flower.

The Good Food Show was also inspirational and the tastings were a delight, with produce from all over the country. The stallholders were unfailingly friendly, chatty, and keen to impart advice and share their love of their product. There was little doubt that curries are particularly popular, with many stalls promoting Indian sauces and chutneys.

On the way back to the car, laden with goodies, we agreed that we'd had a wonderful day, so our thanks to you all at the Gazette.

Brenda Thrush, Ross