Wirral Bonsai Society

SoTM-Tony Tickle

2012-01-16T12:22:00.002Z

This months site is Tony T's revamped blog, see below link for a sneeky peek.

http://yamadeus.wordpress.com/

January Meeting- AGM

2012-01-16T09:27:00.004Z

All present and correct,... let the games begin!

d5........hit
'Angry birds' or just 2:0 down?

I spy....

Hi Everyone

Before I start the First of this years 2012 insight of the W-B-S monthly meetings I would like to deeply Apologise for a name mix-up as The Dave a was referring to in Decembers Christmas Bash I named wrongly (Senior Moment I Guess) For Dave whose Team won the Quiz Night has a Beautiful Lovely Wife named Grace and Not as I mentioned at our last monthly meeting.

Before the Annual General Meeting got underway Ian W wished everyone a Happy and Prosperous New-Year during 2012 and beyond. Ian W also outlined some events that members may be interested in attending and one that W-B-S were defending a Trophy

The Swindon and District Bonsai Society Winter Image Show, on the 19th February 2012, At Stratton Community Centre, Grange Drive, Stratton street, Maragret .Swindon Sn9 4JY. This is where the Society Will defending the Trophy that was WON last year 2011

Also some other interesting events or shows are

The Thirteenth Noelanders Trophy on 21st & 22nd January 2012 in Belgium.
which some members of W-B-S are attending Hopefully bringing some Images back for us All share

The British Shohin Association 6th Annual Exhibition held on Saturday 10th and 11th March 2012 at Willowbog Bonsai UK

Magical Bonsai Accents 2012 on Sunday 27th May 2012 in North Somerset, BS8 3TS UK

Bonsai in Wales Exhibit 26th & 27th August 2012

WIRRAL Bonsai Members Society Show Week-end 1st& 2nd September 2012 At Gordales The Awarding Winning Wirral Garden Center

Burrs Bonsai Week-end 9/10/11 November 2012

Plus events from the V-o-C-B-S which is yet to be announced

All of Wirral Bonsai Society would like to Congratulate and wish Mark K ( of Green Dragon Fame ) best wishes for his New Role as Chairman of the Vale oF Clwyd Bonsai Society, a role we are all sure he will put his heart and soul into. Also a Large Thankyou to the out-going Gentleman Dave B Chairman and Vice Chair Dave Y for their Sterling work within Both Societies and we all know they will be on hand if the need arises.

Most of these events have been highlighted before on our Blog by WebMaster Iain Q and more details can be found in past blog during 2011

It was agreed to maintain our great response and continue with the Last Sunday Of The Month Workshops at the GGC (Gordale's Awarding Winning Garden Center) with the first workshop of the year being on Sunday The 29th January 2012

Ian then handed over the to Geoff D our Trusted and extremely hard working Treasurer who handed out a copy of the Societies Finance Details and had the Books ready for inspection if anybody wanted to inspect
During Geoff's summing up he pointed out that there were some of our show Books 2010 still available and encouraged members to purchase them if they have NOT already done so

There were over 20 members attending the evening for our A-G-M and they cast there vote into keeping the Excellent Committee of 2011 with one exception and that was the Vacant Chair of Vice Chair and Arthur R was nominated by Sean D and seconded by everyone Else

So as present the Committee line up is as follows

Chairman = Ian W
Vice chairman = Arthur R
Treasurer = Geoff D
Gen Secretary = Doug M and Helper Christine M
Membership and Social Secretary =Dena H
Raffle Organisers = Mary and Geoff D
Raflle Ticket Sellers = Sean D and Bill G
Tables 'by Design'=Doug M
Webmaster = Iain Q
Official photographer = Jim 'the Lad'
Show 'Logistics' =Andy H

That's it for this our First Monthly Meeting of 2012. So many thanks To everyone who helped making the Last Sunday Of the Month Workshops a Success and look forward to continuing in the coming months at the GGC and W-B-S Members Wish you ALL a Happy and Prosperous New -Year in 2012

Take care look after each other and All your Bonsai Trees, Accents Plants and everything Bonsai

Jim the lad

December meeting-Christmas Social

2011-12-19T12:36:00.004Z

Ian leads the carol singing...
...while the quiz contestants wait to get their 'starter for 10'

A splendid spread.... as usual.

Bill looks full.... but still takes his plate back for more!!

Hi Everyone

Our Christmas Get-together held on the 14th of December 2011 and it was like "Santa" had arrived 10 days early as Sean D had a large box of Goodies for some members and was busy unpacking them as Sean went down to collected the Hand Made Bonsai Pots that Dena, Steve H, Arthur,and Sean along with other members from V-o-C-B-S made at the week-end workshop so it was delight all round as the members Bonsai Pots were Amazing and it is a Large Thank-you To the V-o-C-B-S for organizing the Ceramic Bonsai Pots week-end and inviting W-B-S to take part.Then it was left to Chairman Ian W welcome every-one to a great night of Excellent Food.a General Knowledge and Bonsai Quiz and with members numbers well into the Mid 20's
Before continuing any further Ian mentioned that Peter B's wife had a mild stroke and that the Society sends best wishes for a speedy recovery and we all wish her well, another bit of sad news is that Willi Benz lost his fight against illness on 10th December.2011.His knowledge of Bonsai and Suiseki was Legendary and was linked to the Development of Bonsai and Suiseki in Europe.and studied with great Japanese Bonsai Masters.also Japan Awarded Him the 'Order of the Rising Sun' (Kyokujitsushō)The Highest Japanese Order, which can be Awarded to Foreigners. and more info can be read here'

http://www.ebabonsai.com/

or on the IBC: where comments and links have been left by many

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t8588p15-willi-benz-has-left-us

The Chairman reminded everyone about the preparation for the Swindon and District Winter Show in which W-B-S has a vested interest in Also that the AGM was next month in January 2012 and there's a vacancy for Vice-Chair so volunteers are most welcomed then it was on the Quiz

Members were split into groups and needless to say that the humour was flowing from the First Question and during the evening with everyone seemly enjoying themselves There was a break for the Buffet which was excellently prepared and set up by the Members Wife's and Lady Members of our Society and it ALL tasted wonderful so another BIG Congratulation to ALL for such an enjoyable Feast

There were a few (well 3) Bonsai Tree in the room An Escallonia belong to Ian W another Small Escallonia belonging to Andy H plus His Black Pine

During the break Sean D did a great job encouraging everyone to get involved in buying Raffle Tickets assisted by Christine M.both of them ensuring that Everyone got a Prize from the large selection that was available so much so no-one went home empty handed

After the Break it was back to the Quiz this time as the saying goes "THE RESULT" there were 50 question on General Knowledge with a few Bonsai Questions thrown in needless to say not everyone got the lot or even all the Bonsai Question Correct ( think we will put that down to The Liquid Refreshment) but Dave B, Kath. Andy H and Mark K came up trumps as Winners of the Quiz so a Large Congratulations to them but everyone regardless of winners really enjoyed the evening and remained around a while chatting and putting the Rest of the Bonsai World to right along lots of laughter then hands shakes wishing each other a WONDERFUL TIME FOR CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR

On that note all that remains from is to Thank Everyone whom attended W-B-S Last Sunday Of The Month Workshop and that we will be back in January 2012 and look forward to having the pleasure of your company along with Your Own Bonsai Tree for member help and guidance

From us All a Large Thank-you for Looking and Reading our Blog, leaving comments we ALL WISH Everyone a Wonderful Holiday's, Merry Christmas. a Prosperous and Happy New Year for 2012

Take Care Look after yourself and each other plus Your Bonsai Trees, Accents Plants including Everything Bonsai

Jim thelad

November Gordale workshop

2011-12-05T09:24:00.002Z

Lots of interest.
you haven't seen me..... right!

Andy examines an interesting tree/pot combination....

.....while Ian checks out the tree belonging to the camera shy couple

Hi Everyone,

It was the Final W-B-S Monthly Workshop of the year on Sunday the 27thNovember 2011 at Gordale’s the very popular and well knowing Award Winning Garden Center here on the Wirral Peninsula

After slow start to the day and a few regulars unable to attend W-B-S Members Andy H, Tom, Steve H, Arthur, Sean D, Doug M and Ian W, were all in fine form cracking jokes enjoying each other’s company and were soon in action working on various Bonsai Trees with Juniper’s, (Seven (7) in all) proving to being the most popular Bonsai Tree of the day, along with a Large Maple and Small Azalea

With the Presence of a World Wide Well Known and an Extremely Generous Gentleman in a Big Red Suit, Red Hat, Wide Black Belt ,Black Boots and White Beard, also the GGC was well and truly in the Christmas Spirit as the whole garden center was showing an excellent and wonderful display’s of Decorated Christmas Trees and an good variety of Bonsai Trees plus an Extensive range of Christmas Items for all to see and purchase so it was a packed day and W-B-S members were in the front line so to speak with many Children an Adult’s passing our workshop tables on the way to and from visiting Santa’s Grotto

During the day there were lots of interest shown from the Public, many stopped, watched and asked questions as to what was going on and Arthur, Tom, Andy and Steve, getting involved answering and explaining question’s to many people who were either Intrigue, Curious, Interested or just Plain Nosy as one Honest Lady proudly said to which her friends readily agreed with her. Sean how-ever was kept busy between helping Tom with his Tree and shown his “Jin” Skills when working on his own Bonsai Tree as various people stopped at different times during the day, Sean was explaining why and what he was doing to his Bonsai Tree as some asked if the tree would be affected in anyway or would the tree DIE because of what Sean was doing to it. In between everything Proud Sean decided to “Bore the Living Daylights out of everyone (joking of-course) by showing members images of his First Grand-daughter a few weeks old ,as was said His own Little Mane, so needless to say there were a few aaaahhhh’s, What a Beautiful Little Girl, She so sweet and isn’t she Cute and lots nice comments after seeing the image of Sean’s Beautiful Grand-Daughter proving Bonsai Members appreciate all things beautiful, then it was back to another one of Sean’s loves working on his Bonsai Trees

Our Mysterious Couple arrived and who have been regular attendee’s at our Sunday Workshops, brought in another one of their excellent Trees to seek guidance and opinions on what’s the best way forward, also arrived their close Friend and possible Minder!!!! who himself is an extremely keen observer and is fascinated by the work that is done by Bonsai members to achieve in making a Garden Tree into a Bonsai Tree of some distinction or even into a Specimen Bonsai Tree

The Tree that they brought in this time was a LARGE Juniper which could be a contender (subject to more work) for honours at any Club or even National Show in the future The Couple are extremely camera shy hence lack of images of them with their Bonsai Tree or Trees. We are hopeful of ALL Three will pay our Society a visit soon and try us for a few months then become Full Members The couple were given sound opinions and constructive comments from Chairman Ian, Doug and Andy and the owner’s voiced their own suggestions, opinions and interacted with everyone in the group which was great to hear and see, in the end the Camera Shy Couple along with their Friend collected their Juniper and went away happy and here’s looking forward to seeing them again in the New Year 2012 either at the GGC’s Last Sunday of The Month Workshop in January or at W-B-S Club Second Wednesday of the Month Meetings

Mr. Nicholson Owner of Gordale’s Garden Center took time out of his busy and important schedule to stop and chat with members and ALL of us at W-B-S would like to express a Massive Large Thank-you to Everyone at GGC for making us all welcomed and for their Hospitality and use of the Garden Centre during 2011 and look forward to continuing with The Last Sunday of The Month Bonsai Workshops during 2012

Arthur and Tom did the tidying and cleaning our workshop area when it was time to call it a day and bring another well supported and pleasurable Workshop to a close for this year, so on behalf of All W–B-S Members we as a Society would like to thank Everyone who took time to stop to see our Bonsai Workshop in action and to those who sought our help with anything Bonsai during 2011 and we all look forward to being back at GGC during 2012

Just a Reminder many images from our Last Sunday of the Month Workshop Day on 27th November 2011 will be on the Wirral Bonsai Facebook, also there is NO LAST SUNDAY of the MONTH WORKSHOP IN DECEMBER 2011 but we will return in January 2012

Take care and look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees

Jim thelad

Bonsai Review 53

2011-11-23T09:41:00.002Z

Double click picture to enlarge

November Meeting-Winter prep.

2011-11-14T14:00:00.000Z

Dave runs through his unusual act, revealing how he manages his intricate wiring!!

(is that a bulge in your fleece or are you just...........?)

......going down a storm!

but a little boasting......

........doesn't.

Hi Everyone

On Wednesday evening the 9th on November the Penultimate get-together before the end of the year 2011 we were in double figures again with members and it was hugs and kisses for our ever Young Mary whom we all welcomed back into the fold after her recent hospitalization

It was then up to Chairman Ian W to get session under way and during his opening speech he reminded members that there was a Bonsai Title To Defend at the Well Respected and Popular Swindon and District Bonsai Society Winter Image Show and as part of their 10th Anniversary years celebrations,The Swindon and District Bonsai Society announced that at their Winter Image Show,is to be held on the 19th February 2012,will feature an exciting new exhibit section and the Society had a request from Mr Bob Bailey to our society to participate in this wonderful event so now it up to members to start preparing and selecting their trees which would be available but most of all suitable for such a Prestigious Winter Show Event.

Ian then introduced Dave Y to give his Winter Preparation thoughts and idea's but before Dave got started with his session he informed members that he was taking a BONSAI BREAK OF 12 MONTHS and assured everyone one and like a Famous movie actor Arnold Schwarzenegger once said in his 1984 Science Fiction Thriller Film The Terminator " I'll Be Back* so we all wish Dave a very Pleasant and Resting Break from Bonsai Public Appearances and he knows that the W-B-S will always be here for him and welcome him back enthusiastically should he decide to cut short his Bonsai Break, hopefully he will miss W-B-S as much as everyone will MISS Him.

Right, on with the Dave's Winter Preparation- once again it was a big benefit with helpful and constructive to us all and many of what was said and suggested really made sense so we will NOT lose many Bonsai Trees as last winter and carrying out advice and idea's that Dave presented will take a massive step to prevent that happening and we all will not lose any trees if any during the on-coming Winter.There's a lot to be said for Preparation before hand such as getting rid or Moss,Cleaning the Trunks and branches,tidying the pots,Securing the trees, finding the best Location,checking out various COLD spot in your area or garden ,doing a few Water in a container test. Watching out for Persistent Rainfall over few days, wedging up pots even covering them for short periods with plastic to prevent water logging and roots being freezing The use of Sheds Garages and even a Shaded Greenhouse for many Trees how-ever remember that some trees need to be left out such as Conifers

Not many Bonsai Trees on Display this evening a few Pines including a few Itoigawa's ,Azalea, Privet and a Accent plant and T-o-T-M was The Small Privet selected by Dave Y

All in all it was a great entertaining session with Dave and members enjoying getting involved with various suggestion of their own experience of what happen during past winter preparation with some banter thrown in and extremely useful information given

At the End chairman Ian W and members applauded Dave Y for his enthusiastic and well presented chat and demo and informed Dave that he will be missed and honestly hopes he returns to Bonsai Fold after his Restful break also that Dave as Vice-chairman was the Rock in the Society and THE BEST VICE-CHAIRMAN he has ever had working with him also for all his extremely hard and Valuable Contribution so after many hand shakes and ( not a dry eye in the house ) it was a wonderful evening

So from us ALL DAVE Y at W-B-S take care look after yourself and all your family including all your Bonsai Trees plus pots and keep checking your RED LIGHT just hope no-one takes it the wrong way and knocks on your door and ask's how much!!!!!, also Hope its not to early but have a great Christmas in Tenerife and all the best for everyone within your family for2012

Just a reminder and a note for your schedules the Penultimate or Last Sunday of Month this year 2011 Workshop at the GGC on the 27th of November 2011

Take care and look after each other and all your family and Bonsai Trees

Jim the lad

November ToTM

2011-11-14T13:00:00.003Z

This months ToTM is pictured above, a Privet created by Ian W.
-
According to Ian -

"The Privet was collected from a garden about 5 years ago cut down to about 12”” then down to 6” its present height and all the deadwood was carved by me and the pot is by Dave Jones of Walsall Ceramics."

Burrs 2011

2011-11-14T12:25:00.003Z

Below is a link to what will probably be an interesting post ( if the past is anything to go by)covering Burrs 2011.

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t8336-burrs-2011-and-so-it-begins

SoTM-New BSA website

2011-11-08T16:25:00.003Z

Below is a link to the new BSA website and blog, looks good to me!

http://www.shohin.org.uk/

Gordale workshop October

2011-11-01T08:56:00.004Z

A full compliment of members
another one doing a 'Tolley'

youve got to be kidding me.....

pleased with the results?

Hard work done?

Hi Everyone

On Sunday the 30th October 2011 The Penultimate Workshop before the end of the year there were a dozen members in attendance in no particular order Tom , Brian ,Dave Y, Sean D ,Bill G Andy H, Arthur, Steve H, Eddie and Ian W and it was an afternoon well spent at the Wonderful Awarding Winning Gordale'x Garden Center here in Wirral Peninsula

As usual members brought in a variety of Bonsai trees to work on such as a Spruce + Juniper's + Zelkova + Field Maple plus other Maples + Privets

During the day Dave Y, Andy H, Steve H , Eddie, Tom, Ian W and Sean D all interacted with the general public answer and helping them all out with their questions and their own Bonsai Trees that they had brought into the workshop. Sean D made a young ladies day as she was very very interested on how and why Sean was using Bonsai Wire on his Bonsai Tree and Sean spent some time explaining and showing the Lady and her partner how he wired his tree and explained the purpose for it. Andy H was also on hand to assist Two Young Boys and their Father in deciding what would be the best starter Bonsai Tree to purchase and having a reasonable success in keeping that species of tree alive and not having the failure that the Young Lads have had so far, so here's hoping they took Andy's advice and that they become regulars at the workshop from time to time.

We all from W-B-S would like to thank once again Mr and Mrs Nicholson and all their excellent and helpful staff for allowing our society to use the Gordale's Garden Center for our Workshop

It was an excellent day and we all enjoyed working on our bonsai trees and especially helping and working on members of public and we all would like thank them very much for taking time to bring their trees into the workshop and ask for the Bonsai Societies help and advice

Until the next time in November we all look forward to seeing you all again

Take care look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees

Jim thelad

October meeting -Trees

2011-10-26T12:33:00.002Z

Walsall Studio Ceramics Workshop

2011-10-26T11:52:00.008Z

show us your jazz hands....

Hi Everyone

On the week-end of the 15/16th of October members of W-B-S were invited to take part in a Walsall Studio Ceramics Workshop week-end hosted by the Vale of Clwyd Bonsai Society at the Green Dragon Establishment

Over the 2 day workshop 18 members or so from both Bonsai Societies enjoy a great adventure in making their own Bonsai pots from start to finish as far as they could before being transported to Walsall Ceramics Location then there members bonsai pots wiil be checked over thoroughly by Mr's Dave + Ken and Mark Jones, The Team of Experts at Walsall Ceramics before going into Electric kiln taken out then more work done on the pots before going into Gas Firing Kilns More about this process and how the pots are completed can be found on
Wallsal Studio Ceramics Website

http://www.walsall-studio-ceramics.com/wsc%20web%20new%20about%20us.htm

On Sunday the 16th a few members Dave B + Dave Y + Mark K + Brian Dual Members with both societies + Arthur + Sean D + Steve H +Dena and Ron from W-B-S had their sleeves rolled up getting all Wet and Dirty (well just a little) along with members Vale of Clwyd Members DangerousBryn + Steph + Othelia and all really enjoyed the experienced of making their own Bonsai Pots for their Bonsai Trees

All in all it was a GREAT Experience with everyone making 2 Bonsai Pots Large and Small and enjoying what they had achieved over the Two Day Workshop Event in Friendly, Pleasant Warm Conditions with plenty of Tea, Coffee and Snacks at Green Dragon's Location at Trelawnyd, Flintshire LL18 6DN and a LARGE Thankyou to Mr Dave Jones for all his Expert Tuition and a well prepared Bonsai Pot Workshop PLUS to the Vale of Clwyd Bonsai Committee for Inviting W-B-S members along and hopefully another Walsall Ceramic Workshop will be held again also from me a Big Thanks for allowing me to take images of you all whilst working on making your Bonsai Pots

Many images will appear on Wirral Bonsai on FACEBOOK

http://www.facebook.com/#!/theweelad?sk=photos

Take care look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees and Bonsai pots

Jim thelad

VoCBS members Show 2011

2011-10-24T14:25:00.002Z

Sorry for tardy posting but please find below a link to the VoCB club show post on the IBC.

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t7691-vocbs-sept-3-4th-show-weekend-2011

October meeting -Basic Styling Techniques

2011-10-20T14:12:00.004Z

Ian W does a Steve Tolley impression.....

....and then Rolf Harris!

-
keeping the audience enthrawled....
-

....mostly!

Wednesday’s Evening the 12th of October was well attended with over Two Dozen members attending for the Basic Styling Techniques Night

Before it got under way Ian W expressed his and the Members best wishes for a Speedy Recovery and asked Geoff to convey them to Wee Mary who was taken to Hospital during a recent canal boat trip
The evening session started with Ian explaining the in’s and out on BST and what to look for before starting work on your tree. Having an idea or a plan and what could or would be achieved is something to bear in mind when deciding what to do. It was mentioned a Pre Starter Bonsai Tree could be worth looking out for from a Bonsai Tree Nursery and a great help and not just a Tree that you could obtain from a Garden Centre unless you are willing to take time to develop your idea onto a Bonsai Tree which can be done, just something to think about
Between Ian W. and Dave Y both gentlemen gave many useful and constructive opinions that the attentive audience took in and like me were appreciative for all the information that was given as far as I know no matter how long you have been working on Bonsai Trees going back to Basic Styling now and again could help and is not just for the newbie’s (like Me) as Styling Techniques changes throughout the years
The evening session was a very well presented as we all expect nothing less from Ian W and Dave Y and look forward to next Month’s Topic Winter Preparation and from what is going around from the Weather people it’s not a Session that should be missed as a repeat of last year’s weather is NOT something we would like to see again not only for us but also for all our Bonsai Trees

some of the bonsai trees that were on show were Four x Junipers =
Privet = Potenilia = Small Forest = Small Rock Landscape and some Small Pots

On the Last Sunday of the month there is the October Sunday Workshop held at the Award Winning Gordale’s Garden Centre on the 30th Once again our Excellent and Trustworthy Senior Members will be on hand to help and give advice to any members and the General Public with any with Bonsai Trees Questions along with working on their own Bonsai Trees

Sorry for lack of Post and write-up in September due to our 4 year old Grand-Daughter’s first week at Big School took priority this time

That’s it for now hope to see some of you on the LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH at GGC

Take care look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees

Jim thelad

Taking over the world, club by club

2011-10-12T11:08:00.003Z

Congratulations are in order for former member Les S who apparently has won the Maidstone annual tree of the month award.

http://maidstonebonsaisociety.blogspot.com/2011/10/and-winner-is.html

Bonsai in Wales Exhibit 2012

2011-10-10T08:32:00.002Z

A Flyer from Malcom Hughes highlighting the exhibition to take place in Newport South Wales next year.

Well worth a trip.

Double click to enlarge

Bonsai Review 51

2011-09-20T11:56:00.003Z

Double click picture to enlarge

VoCBS members Show

2011-09-13T07:45:00.003Z

Below is a link to the IBC discussions on the VoCBs's recent show, including some comments by Jim on his visit across the border!

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t7691-vocbs-sept-3-4th-show-weekend-2011

Gordale Workshop with Steve Tolley

2011-08-30T21:55:00.001Z

Sunday the 28th of August this year W-B-S held its last Sunday of the Month Workshop but this time it was very very special indeed, as we had none other than Mr Steve Tolley, our friend at W-B-S for life after his Critique about W-B-S Members Annual Show

This Was My very First Workshop that I had the privileged to attend Hosted by a Bonsai Supremo In My opinion Mr Steve Tolley and I did not know what to expected but my expectations were high and I was NOT disappointing as It was more than I could ever have imagine

Mr Tolley was on the go from the minute he arrived at our workshop in the Award Winning Gordale's Garden Center here in the Peninsula Of The Wirral, The Wirral's Premier One and Only Bonsai Society

We were way into Double figures again but this time of year due to Holiday's and other commitments and more than few regular members at the Sunday Workshop could not make it and most had sent their apologies for missing out

In attendance, in no particular order were Billy = Andy H = Ian W =Tom = Dave B = Dave Y= Stan = Doug M = Brian and Margaret = Tony F = Dena and Ron = Eddie J = Lee K = Arthur and if I missed anyone out i am sorry just put it down to me having a Senior Moment well i am over 18 years

The variety of trees that was brought were Scots Pines some normal for bonsai BUT one Massive one which Lee K is the proud owner off = Hemlock = Junipers = Spruce = Austrian Black Pine = Black Pine = Forest Group = Raft Presentation Blackthorn = Maple = Yew = Escallonia = Azalea = Privets = Larch plus a few more that never made it to the work tables

Mr Tolley wasted no time getting going and soon was going round to everyone given his expert opinion and making suggestions on how the members may work on their Trees and he took time with each individual asked them questions and suggested other options which most members took plus he did more than a few Sketches to demonstrate how he sees the tree developing and he worked his way around the members

After a while it was time for a break and it seemed no sooner had Mr Tolley went for a well deserved cuppa and something to eat he was then back at the workshop tables going round everyone again asking how they were progressing and got into the middle of the action with everyone's Tree

It was one of the best experiences I ever had at a Bonsai Hosted Workshop and not One Member could say they DID NOT LEARN ANYTHING or take at least ONE Thing Away with them from Mr Steve Tolley's Workshop Presentation

So on behalf of Everyone who attended the Workshop At GGC A MASSIVE Thank-youto Mr STEVE TOLLEY and well all hope you will pay us a visit again soon

Also W-B-S are utterly Grateful to our event Hosts Mr and Mrs Nicholson for providing the faculties that allows W-B-S to have such a British, European and need I say World Artist and Gentleman as Mr Steve Tolley Bonsai; Four Dimensional Art

That's about it for now August this year was a very very busy month and we all look forward to our next meeting when we have a Debrief on the Annual Show and followed by on the 14th September- Bonsai Boot/table sale /New members Introduction

And a Reminder that W-B-S is NOW ON FACEBOOK

Account ===== Wirral Bonsai

Take care look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees

Jim

Im away at present so please check out the Facebook account set up by Jim to see pics of what seems to have been a wonderful day.
Au revoir
Iain

Japan Day 2011

2011-08-26T11:35:00.005Z

A Les S security team member really comes prepared this time!!!

--
Bill in his element....

ditto....

ditto...

....doesn't he just love it!

It was back down to earth again after our FANTASTIC 4 day event of W-B-S Members Annual Show as we honoured our Commitment with Natsuko Isa a very sweet young Lady with a wonderful smile and quiet spoken very pleasant Mr Paul Cook the contact person for the event is Friend's Group committee member at Wallasey Central Library

In the morning session Dena and Ron did the honours in representing our society showing various Bonsai Trees such as (JWP) Japanese White Pine = An Oak = Scots Pine = Maple = Chinese Elm = Pyracantha and laid out a Great table Displaying their Bonsai Trees along with various Literature about Bonsai culture and W-B-S and answer the many question that the public were asking while visiting the Natsuko and Paul's Japan Day

Our display table was very situated as all the public had to pass by our display to get into the rest of the event Good judgement from Dena and Ron.

In the Afternoon session Bill G along with his trees was the main attraction and brought a few trees and accent plants starting with a few Cotoneaster = Honeysuckle = Japanese Black Pine = Itoi-Gawa Juniper = Hinoki Cypess
The morning session was busier than the afternoon on but Bill G was in his element explaining the ins and out on how to keep a Bonsai Alive and healthy and also many members of the public took away info about W-B-S and you never know who may attend our monthly meeting the Second Wednesday of each month

It seemed a very well attended event and W-B-S were more than pleased to show our support to a well while worthy cause and culture and establishing our Society in the local community

Take care and look after each other and all your Bonsai Trees as they need us to stay alive and healthy

jim thelad

Bonsai Accent Show

2011-08-25T11:59:00.003Z

Below is a link to a show set for 27th May 2012. One for Andy H methinks.

http://magicalbonsaiaccents.wordpress.com/

Gordale Workshop with Steve Tolley -28th August

2011-08-19T11:45:00.004Z

Just a reminder to members that there will be a workshop with Steve Tolley @ Gordale on the 28th August.

I believe its only £10 and your in!...... bargain!

IBC Discussions on WBS Show

2011-08-17T09:47:00.003Z

Below is a link to more of Jims photos of the show plus comments from viewers on T'internet.

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t7519-wirral-bonsai-members-annual-show-2011

Tai Chi with Steve Tolley

2011-08-16T09:50:00.000Z

A picture paints a thousand words..........Love it!!
--

A massive personal thanks go from me to Jim for the time, effort and skill put in during the show and over the last few months, the Blog would be nothing without it.

Iain

2011 WBS Club show results 1

2011-08-15T13:58:00.003Z

Chairmans Award
Deshojo

Cypress

Crab apple

Sean D's public award

Chairman's Award == No 5 Japanese Maple == Dave Y.

Chairman's Certificate of Merit To

Sean D. == No 3 Maple (Acer Palmatum Deshojo)

Bill G. == No 19 Hinoki Cypress

Sean D. == No 16 Crab Apple

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Voted Best Tree By the Public and Awarded The Dave Mitchell Trophy By Dave Mitchell Family

Sean D. == No 3 Maple ( Acer Palmatum Deshojo)

--------------------------------------------------------------

First Prize Raffle Winner

Raffle Prize winner were Cathy and Steven From the county of Cheshire who won First prize and collected thier Bonsai Juniper (itoi-gawa) from Christine M and Bill G along with a FULL FREE membership to W-B-S and we hope they will enjoy thier tree and continue in the Bonsai Culture and a large thank you to everyone who voted for the Public Tree selection and entered our Raffle.

2011 WBS Club show results

2011-08-15T13:01:00.010Z

Best Shohin
Best Chuhin

Best Broadleaf

Best Conifer & Best in Show

This was the day that All Wirral Bonsai Club Members have been working hard for since this time last year 2010

All the work and tidying up by everyone was completed in time for the arrival of The 3 Wise-men of The Bonsai World and Culture (Well at least 2)

We had in our midst Mr Steve Tolley Bonsai Four Dimensional Art Supremo,

Mr Ian Stewardson (A Gentle Giant (well he is Taller than Me) who is the Proud Owner of A Bonsai Life Achievement Award of the FOBS (Federation Of British Bonsai) and

Mr David Jackson a Soft Spoken Gentleman who has a Extremely keen interest in Bonsai culture and a Senior instructor at Invoshin School of Martial arts and also gracing our event was Mr and Mrs Malcolm Hughes a former President

at the Wirral Bonsai Society Club Show (so No Pressure were on our members) and today our Guest Judge was none other than a Gentleman who has so much Talent it would take me for-ever to write about his knowledge, and still not complete everything about him, his achievements his outlook for the future of Bonsai Culture in Britain and in Europe or even World Wide plus his other interests

But you can find what this gentleman Mr Steve Tolley is all about by visiting his website and I am sure you will NOT be disappointed.

After Judging Mr Steve Tolley had nothing but the Highest praise for the Wirral Bonsai Society and he found it extremely difficult to judge because of the High Standard that has been achieved by our Club and to Crown it all we were informed as a Society that there is a Potential of 12 and maybe 3 other Trees that could be Selected for THE BEST OF BRITISH BONSAI in 2 years time Extremely high praise From Mr Steve Tolley

The Winners were

Best Shohin == no 26 Chinese Juniper Owner == Ian W.

Best Chuhin == No 2 English Yew (Taxus Baccata ) Owner == Iain Q.

Best BroadLeaf ==No 7 Escallonia Owner ==Ian W.

Best Conifer & Best in Show== No 4 Juniper (Kishu) Owner == Lee K.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

A Fabulous Show and we all would like to thank the owners of the GGC Mr and Mrs Nicholson for their kind hospitality welcoming W-B-S into their Award Winning Center and also a young lady Karen a jewel in the crown that the GGC has in their mist a young lady whose enthusiasm for not only our presence but for anyone who she comes into contact within the garden center and always has a welcoming smile for them all

I hope everyone who attended our show enjoyed what they had seen and spread the word and good news about Wirral Bonsai Society and Gordale's Garden Center for we will be BACK in 2012 and if all goes well with a big and better display of Bonsai Trees and Accent plants

Take care look after each other and your Bonsai Trees

From ALL OF US AT W-B-S a Large Thankyou to each and everyone of you who took time to visit us

Jim thelad

Club Show @ Gordale -Prep.3

2011-08-15T10:24:00.004Z

last minute hoover!

decisions.... decisions!

job done.

Another Day and tension starting to creep in and deciding where the Show's Bonsai Trees are to be placed

It was a steady flow of placement of the trees with swopping positions to make sure everything was exactly where it should be along with any Accents Plants that complimented the Tree and this time it was the Chairman Ian W. who was Responsible with task of lining up, positioning and organizing the days tasks and with help from Senior Members. All went well and the countdown was about to start for the following days Judging. Many members have been in this position before but I am sure One or Two were experiencing a few pre-judging butterflies as we all did not want to let our Society down with the display presentation and Quality of W-B-S Bonsai Trees

At GGC closing time is was off for some relaxation if that was possible, as it was an early start on Saturday the 3rd day of our Event when it will all now start in earnest.

Take care and look after yourself and ALL your Bonsai Trees

Jim the lad

Club Show @ Gordale -Prep.2

2011-08-15T10:03:00.003Z

I believe this to be around 6"

Stick em up

This season white socks will be 'de rigueur'
Doug does his best Doddy impression!!
(its not working for me)

Club Show @ Gordale -Prep.1

2011-08-15T09:55:00.002Z

This is the Big One for Members of W-B-S with the Yearly Four Day Event in Sunny Wirral with the odd Rain Cloud paying a visit now and again at our location in Gordale's Award Winning Garden Center

By the time the transport arrived from North Wales with the early crew collecting and bringing the Display Benches it was almost 11am then it was all systems go with Dave Y and his team unloading the Gordales Van assisted by the waiting members who were raring to go and assemble the benches and for once it was straight to work not even time for a quick cuppa, but we did not have to waiting too long and everything was going well and soon the units were up and almost fitted.

At last it was time for that cuppa then back to the grind stone to continue finish assembling the display units before dressing the benches for the Members Bonsai Trees and Accent plants. The whole operation from start to finish seem to take no time at all and went like clockwork and to me this was partly due to the Skill and Craftsmanship of Dave Y and Doug M who designed and built the Display Benches also the Mottley Crew who worked there socks of to complete a job well done.

W-B-S members would like to express their gratitude and a big thankyou to Mr.Jonathan Briers, Gordale's Garden Center Manager who has been with the company for 18 years for the Massive help and assistance for driving and helping all round with the display benches and would like to book him for next year if that possible!!

That was the run down on day one Day Two follows shortly

Take care look after yourself and your Bonsai Trees and hope some of you will have paid our bonsai show a visit

Jim thelad

Club Show @ Gordale -Prep.

2011-08-12T12:36:00.005Z

"Its show time"

The build team

The usual suspects

Message re Japan Day

2011-08-12T12:33:00.001Z

Hi Jim!

Thanks for you email. That's great news that the W-B-S can attend. We can give you 1 large table [182cms X 76cms] and 2 smaller tables. Is this ok? Also the event is from 1000 till 1600. We will be setting up from 0900 so you're welcome to come from 0900 onwards. The break is from 1300 to 1400.
During this time we'll have to vacate the library. The library staff say this is for insurance purposes. We are hoping the weather will be good as there is a park outside the library. If the weather is terrible then we will invite everyone back to our flat near the library. There are also a number of good pubs within walking distance of the library.
As for parking, the is a small free car park [about 15 spaces] opposite the library and on-street parking nearby too.
I'm not sure if I can make the Goredale Garden Centre event but will try. I hope it goes well for you.

Regards

Natsuko

August Meeting -Show prep. -Selection

2011-08-12T08:17:00.002Z

Wednesday's Meeting was the NIGHT that many were hoping Their Tree would get selected for Our Annual Members Show. I suspect a few members had a little bit of Nerves Hoping that ALL the hard work during the past year and months was going to pay off by having their Tree Selected and to be Judge by Mr Steve Tolley. (plus maybe Three or Four other EUROPEAN and WORLD Renowned and Respected Bonsai Tree Artist's whom are also hopefully visiting our W-B-S Members Annual Show.)

There was a sense of Quietness in the room and it was great to have Chairman IanW back in the the Hot Seat. Iain started the meeting by thanking everyone for their kind gratitude and concern during the past months.

Then it was down to the Serious business of discussion the selection of Bonsai Trees as he pointed out that it was a Surprise (to put it mildly) to see so FEW Bonsai Trees on show for Selection Compared with Last Year 2010.
Reason !!! Well Ian informed everyone that it was up to each and every one of us to make an effort to do their best with their trees and bring them into the Meetings for selections and NOT leave everything to the SHOW Regulars as at times NOT all the these regulars can attend as what seems to have happened on Wednesday as at least over four were unable to attend and be available to show their Trees. I am sure it hurt a few members to hear what the Chairman and echoed by the Vice Chairman Dave Y had to say. BUT if our Society wants to stay in the spotlight or be one of the front runners in Bonsai in the Northwest or even in England WE ALL must do out part (including Yours Truly)

Dave Y then took over and ran through the schedule preparation for our 2 Days of Show set-up and the 2 days of the show itself and also asked members if they would like to participate in the Japan day at Wallasey Central Library on the 20th August
and Bill G plus 1 (could be Sean D) + Billy D + Arthur + Dena and Ron volunteered to go along with their Trees either to show or maybe to work on and answer any question about W-B-S and help to Promote Japan Day in W.C.L

During the evening the selection process was carried out and many owners of the bonsai trees were happy and rewarded for all the hard and careful work that was carried on during the past year. So now even more tension I feel will effect them waiting to see what Guest Judge Mr Steve Tolley will comment on the show, trees and if members ask for a small critique.

At last the 2010 Show Display Book was now at the Society and members were able to purchase them

The Hard work on Trees is now done and only small details will be carried out during the next few days to have their trees up to show standard.

Thursday will see the start of the Set-up of the 2 day display and positioning of the Bonsai Trees supervised by Ian W the followed by the 2 day show itself.

I would like to wish everyone well, from the troops who setup the display to organizers, planners, the members of the Social side of things plus Gordale's Garden Center for allowing us to have our Show at their Wonderful Awarding Winning Premises, to members whose trees have been selected and do our Society Proud.

Once again all that remains for me to say is Take Care Look after each and your Bonsai Trees

Jim thelad

Club Show Organisation

2011-08-10T13:40:00.003Z

Gordale Weekend August 13th – 14th 2011 Proposed Roles within the organisational structure.

Project Managers (Arthur)
1. Ensures smooth running of the event
2. Checks all areas of event have been covered
3. Last min checks
4. Problem solving in conjunction with others
5. Not responsible for personally doing all the work just for seeing it gets done
6. Suggest 2 members

Stand Constructors ( Dave Y Doug M + Sean and Steve)
1. Getting the various parts of the stand to the event
2. Working with Gordale with regards to use of their van
3. Ensuring cloth and other stand dressing is available on the day
4. Ensuring they have the necessary tools to put the stand together
5. Checking the health and safety aspects regarding display in a public place
6. Suggest 2 members with responsibility plus 2 helpers to set + 2 helpers to dismantle

Tree selection and display ( Ian W)
1. Decide upon a range of trees reflecting the diversity of the club
2. Organise some form of equitable selection procedure for choosing the trees
3. Checking trees prior to show, making recommendations for improvement as necessary
4. Protocols to ensure all selected trees arrive at the Gordale for a designated time and date
5. Positioning of trees within the overall display
6. Checking that suitable stands and accent plants are positioned appropriately
7. Suggest 2 members plus member with accent plant responsibility

Accent plant manager (Andy Hardman has volunteered will need help)
1. Ensuring a range of suitable accent plants are available for the event
2. Not responsible for providing accents just ensure members displaying have them
3. Working with tree display members to ensure best combination

Sales and Promotion
1. Ensuring other clubs and societies are aware of the event
2. Personal invitations to interested members of the bonsai fraternity
3. Arranging for suitable sales table for members surplus stock
4. Checking with Gordale that this would be acceptable
5. Ensuring event is accessible on the Wirral bonsai society blog
6. Providing information required by Gordale to publish the event
7. Contact press if appropriate for inclusion under events/human interest

Photography (Jim the Lad + Sean Warburton V.O.C.B.S.)
1. Ensuring photography is covered on both days of the event
2. Ensuring there are photographs of
3. Setting up the event
4. Displaying the trees and accent plants
5. A record of individual trees on display
6. Interaction between members of the club and the public
7. Dismantling the display
8. Presentations to members with winning trees.
9. Ensuring the relevant photo’s are made available for inclusion on the Blog
10. Copies of photographs available for members on CD

Raffle (Bill G + Steve)

1. Providing sufficient raffle tickets for the two days
2. Checking raffle prizes are at the event and on display
3. Arranging the rota so we have somebody selling tickets continually
4. Arranging for the draw and distribution of prizes ( contacting winners not present)

I am sure that I will have missed out jobs that are important or need doing. It is important that Gordale is a whole club show and not just the domain of a handful of members. I would ask you all to give as much time as you can to this event, it was a great success last year and we need to equal or improve on that. If you would like to volunteer for any of the areas listed above you can Email me at daveyarranton@yahoo.co.uk
Many thanks in anticipation

Dave

Best of British Bonsai 2011 Book

2011-08-09T07:49:00.004Z

Double click to enlarge

BEST OF BRITISH BONSAI 2011
BOOK NOW AVAILABLE
We have produced a second book illustrating all the trees shown at the exhibition.
This book is in full colour and captures both the quality and splendour of the trees displayed at this event.
The book is available now; take your opportunity to order and do not miss your copy.

http://www.bbb2011.com/

Kath Hughes

For sale

2011-08-08T12:04:00.002Z

Time to check your small change jar!!!

http://www.bonsaiinformation.com/bonsaicollection.htm

Wirral Bonsai Show @ Gordale 13th/14th August

2011-08-05T08:58:00.001Z

Security services

2011-08-04T09:02:00.004Z

Dear Mr Q

I am currently preparing an invoice for services provided by my company, Les S Security Services, at the recent workshop. Costs include travel from Ashford Kent 290 miles each at at 53ppm and the services of 4 of my staff at £150 per day. I would be grateful for immediate reimbursement.

The company can also provide security for you on 12th August when the grouse shooting season starts as it would be a shame if anybody at WBS were to suffer collateral damage.

Best wishes

Les S
Chief Executive
Les S Security PLC

Dear Mr S,

I will forward your invoice to the most relevant person for the job, probably the new club mascot - Good shooting!!

July- Gordale Workshop 2

2011-08-02T08:15:00.004Z

A new club mascot?
oohh........suits you sir!!!

....wish my trees got such a reaction.

Andy starts a sand dance.

The 'Les S' security team arrives from 'darn souf' - I must admit I didn't think Les could get his leg so high anymore!!

(Great job with the pics Jim.)

July- Gordale Workshop 1

2011-08-02T07:43:00.006Z

...you could have gone to spec savers!!

(other opticians are also available)

about so high....
time for a trim methinks!
pretty in pink.....

and they say owners look like there dogs!!!!

It had to happen sometime as it was a very quiet day around the W-B-S Workshop Tables, with just a few members of the pubic bringing along their own trees. Society members were enjoying each others company and doing what they do best working on their Bonsai Trees and helping out members of the General Public- as we were into DOUBLE Figures with personnel, the First time that has happened since we started our last Sunday of the Month Workshops Bash at the GGC (Gordale's Garden Center ) Four months or so ago. With most of The Committee in attendance Ian W, Dave Y,ever present Andy H and Doug M with Sean D, Tom. Arthur, Eddie J and our latest additions to the W-B-S fold Brian and his good lady Margaret who brought in two trees to work on and get advice from the senior members and Christine popped in to see how we were all doing (Doug M's young lady)

The variety of Bonsai Trees that the troops were working on were European Hornbean + Various Maples including a Deshojo + few Privets + Four Chinese Elms + Contoneaster + Juniper + Larch + Scots Pine and a Procumbens

Just to remind EVERYBODY about a Japan Day to be held this month.

The event is at Wallasey Central Library on the 20th August from 1000 to 1600 with a break from 1300 to 1400. They're going to have a number of activities taking place throughout the day. The proceeds from the event will be split between the Red Cross Tsunami Appeal and the Friends Of Wallasey Central Library. There will be a number of Japanese people and others interested in Japanese culture taking part in the event.

W-B-S has been approached and here is whats going on that day

Activities include:

# Dress up in a Kimono
# Japanese calligraphy
# Learn how to do Origami
# Tradional Japanese painting exhibition [Sumi-e]
# Book/DVD/CD sale
# Japanese traditional storytelling [for adults and children]
# Colouring & painting for children
# Japanese Poetry/Haiku workshop
# Japanese tea, coffee & cakes
# Tsunami information stand
# Basic Japanese class
# Information about Japan exhibition [Sport, Culture, History, Food etc]
# Raffle and prizes
# Craft stand
# Manga paintings
Plus more to be announced.......

If you would like to have a table at the event that would be great. This could be a workshop or whatever you want. If you have anymore questions please don't hesitate to ask.

The above information was sent by Natsuko who is helping to organize the Japan Day Event

So anybody who feels up to attending and taking their Bonsai Trees or doing small Workshop on the 20th August 2011 please please tell any member of the W-B-S committee and as our Chairman has said "it would be a shame to miss out. "

We All know August this year is a very very busy month but I am sure it's better to be involved than not at all.

Thats all for now.

Take care look after each other and your Bonsai Trees

Jim thelad

July Meeting- Preparing trees for showing

2011-07-25T14:27:00.005Z

Andy opens the meeting

Al D from VoCBc examines a potentila.....
while Doug's still looking for the money!

comme ci, comme ça !!

Wednesday's get-together was the Penultimate meeting before the W-B-S Annual Show to be held at Gordales Garden Center on the 13th /14th of August 2011 so now the countdown begins with 30 Days to go before the show, how-ever before that, we have the next meeting on the Wednesday 10th August then followed by 2 days (Thursday and Friday) setting up.the display arena so it will be ALL hands to the Pump as a few members would say to make our Annual Club Bonsai Show a Success like it has done in past years and in the Future

Due to Holidays,Family and Work commitments it was Andy H who was the Lord and Master for the Evening with help from Tony, Doug and Sean D to get the session under way During Andy's Speech he echoed the committee's view of trying to have NEW TREES on display this year and Andy has urged members to take full advantage of the Last Sunday of this Month 31st of July's 2011 Workshop at GGC to work on their trees for the Display show Plus asked members to do their best to use the last Sunday of the month Workshop's as there will be NO MORE WORKSHOP Held on our Wednesday night meeting due to the time factor ( just over 2 hours per night) and space to really work on our trees

Andy also mentioned messages were left on the message board it was a request from Natsuki Isa at Wallasey Central Library and was on the message board but in-case anyone has missed them this is was written to the Blog on 7thJuly 2011

There will be an event, Japanese Day, held in Wallasey Central Library on 20th August. That'd be great if you could share your Bonsai works and do some workshop

Please contact me if you are by any chance interested in taking part in the event. By the way, the photos on your website reminds me of my grand mother's in Japan♪ Thanks

(our Blog master Iain Q must be congratulated for the Sterlin work that he does with W-B-S Blogspot so from me keep up the great work " Mentor and Boss" )

Natsuki was sent mail some are waiting to hear what the outcome is
The main topic of the evening was getting trees ready for the show next month and discussing the details about the set-up and dis-mantling of equipment,packing putting everything away and cleaning the area we used. Even though Dave Y was unable to attend (Holidays AGAIN) it was put forward his suggestion that we stick to the same Routine we used last year as everyone who was there knows it worked so well and was so Successful

Just under 25 members attended the meeting and it was great to see 2 new-comers Mr and Mrs H better known as Brian Margaret from the next county (Cheshire). So a very BIG WELCOME to you both and we are ALL here to help and would like you Both take an Active part within our society or just enjoy our company

There was NO Tree Of The Month and the trees that were on display were a few Korean Hornbeans. Potentilla, Japanese Honeysuckle. Pyracantha Tree ( was nicknamed "The Cauliflower Tree" and Sean D brought in some beautiful display tables he brought back for Malaysia recently and an Accent plant

That's it for now take care and look after all your bonsai trees

Jim thelad

Pat on the back

2011-07-21T12:29:00.004Z

Hi Jim,
I like the way that you are reporting on the blog, it keeps me in touch with what is going on in the Wirral, keep it up!

best wishes

les

Here, here.

Iain

Bonsai Review 49

2011-07-21T12:15:00.003Z

Anybody you recognise on the last page?

Gordale Funday weekend 2011 -Sunday

2011-07-12T07:56:00.007Z

Doug searching for loose change amongst the branches of a Money tree!

Andy deep in discussion.

is it shock or just the wind blowing the rug off?

Andy, with his favourite kind of audience!!

On the 26th July 2011, W-B-S were invited to attend the 2 day Fun-day at Gordale's Garden Center (GGC) and it was amazing as the GGC was buzzing with many activities for members of the public out to enjoy themselves ,so once again this gave the Society a chance to meet, greet and help many members of the public with anything bonsai.

On Saturday the 9th July 2011 not everyone was able to attend the 2 day event but it was left to Bill G. Doug M (whose wife Christine is a Bonsai widow so i am told ) and of-course our Bonsai Blogspot Master Iain Q, my mentor and advisor for the society site at www.wirral-bonsai.blogspot.com and I am told that all went well on Saturday.

On Sunday the 10th July See-No Evil,Hear No-Evil and Say No-Evil in the form of Andy H, Doug M and yours truly The Lad had the pleasure of working on some Bonsai Trees such as Cork Bark Elm, Privets, Potential, Cotoneaster, Juniper, Hornbeam, Acer, Maple, Satsuki and a Chamaectparis plus some other trees

The day started well and it was nice to see so many smiling face as members of the public brought in a few trees and a gentleman who we have help in the past few months returned and we hope will prove to be a regular brought in another ones of his trees this time a Money Tree and it was this time it was Doug M who attended to his worries over his Bonsai Tree

During the afternoon, WBS Members Dee and Ron arrived and we were then able to hand out information Leaflets about the Society which came in handy as many leaflets were taken away and hopefully read.

Doug M, who is already well known for being one of the Foremost Craftsmen of Bonsai Tables and Stands to a very extremely high standard and quality of Detail. (More about Doug Craftsmanship can be found on Bonsai Review.48/1) met and chatted with a Mr Simon Wilson who himself is a fellow Wood Carver and Engraver and you never know Mr Wilson may even see the light and become a member of a Bonsai Club or Society.

It was almost 5pm when it was time to go and we all would like to express our biggest thank-you to the young lady in the Plant Department who looked after us all, treated us extremely well and always had a smile for us working so hard to makes us all welcome and want W-B-S to come back again and again to GGC. Also not forgetting Mr and Mrs Nicholson and all the staff at GGC for their support and inviting us into their establishment and long may it continue.

All that is left for me to say is that the W-B-S Workshop will be on the LAST Sunday of Every MONTH at GGC, hopefully we will see you all there so bring any Bonsai Trees that you may need advice on or just pop-in to see what we are all about.

Take Care

Jim thelad Look after each other and your Bonsai Trees

Gordale Funday weekend 2011 -Saturday

2011-07-11T09:19:00.009Z

Doug and Bill busy tweaking trees and when asked, answering questions from interested punters.

Yours truly's work involved giving this Buxus a short back and sides!

(this is after BTW!)

Lack of Posts

2011-07-07T16:57:00.002Z

Sorry for the lack of posts, ive been trying to publish the post below for about a week but there has been 'issues' with blogger that stopped me. Hopefully they have been resolved now.

Gordale workshop June

2011-07-03T11:42:00.003Z

the lads busy.........gossiping!!

smell those privet flowers.

Dave explains why he's covering his pot in tape to Jill and Peter. (Im still unclear why he wa sactually doing this??)
it was obviously a daunting job!

A Hot day at Gordale's GC even though it rained for a little but that did not stop Society members enjoying working on various trees including Privets, Larch, Maples, Pines, Potentilla plus other trees. Also helping out a few members of the public with lots of questions about their own trees, but we all feel if they had brought the trees into the workshop it would have been more helpful to them and of course to members trying to give advice without seeing the tree

However on saying that a gentleman did arrive and ask a few questions about the why's and how's about his tree and asked if he could bring it into the workshop. After a little while the gentleman arrived back with his tree and members gave their opinions and advice how the tree should be looked after. Not knowing the make of the tree Andy H suggested it was some Species of Ivy.

During the Day the owners of Gordale's Mr and Mrs Peter and Jill Nicholson chatted with members Mrs Gordale (Jill) was asking Dave Y about his Large Beautiful Bonsai Pot (or as she called it a LARGE TUB so now Dave's pot is Affectionately Known as THE TUB by some members) and why Dave was Masking his pot so Dave explained everything to her. Also they both chatted about their trip to Japan and all the fantastic Bonsai Trees and display's they saw and later Mrs Gordale (Jill) came back to show member images of the Bonsai Trees they had seen.

All in all another great day with lots of banter and laughter with some chips and ice-cream being devoured whilst working on trees and the renaming of a Large Beautiful Pot THE TUB and helping a few members of the public plus Its amazing what a bit of sunshine does for everyone it was good to see people smiling.

W-B-S has also been invited to the Funday Week-end at GGC on the
Saturday the 9th and Sunday the 10th of July from 9am till 6pm.
So any members who can make it would i am sure have a great time if just for a few hours bring along your trees and work on them in nice pleasant company and i am sure you would enjoy the chips and ice-cream as well

A BIG thank you to all the staff at GGC and to Mr and Mrs Peter and Jill Nicholson for all their Hospitality and taking time to chat with members of our society

Take care and look after each other

Jim thelad

June Meeting- Members trees

2011-06-16T08:16:00.008Z

A stunning Escallonia

It was left to your's truly To Select T-O-T-M and for me ALL the Trees and Accent Plants were worthy of the Monthly Award BUT being a Sucker for Artistic work, little Pink Flowers, PLUS The Wimbledon Style Lawn I decided that Ian W's Tree was my T-O-T-M (I was going to offer a 3 Figure amount for his Tree BUT I don't think he would part with the tree for £1.50P )

Ian's Tree is a Escalliona Growing from Cutting Over 20 years ago and in a Gordan Duffett Hand Built Bonsai Pot and is available from Ian W. but Not at my measly 3 figure sum.
Jim the Lad.

A lovely Cotoneaster...

...and a cute one.

a Maple...... before leaf pruning??

June Meeting- Leaf pruning Maples

2011-06-16T08:09:00.009Z

Ian introduces the meeting

Andy covers the theory.......

-
and the practise......

......while entertaining the troops!

........are you sure??

Wednesday Night's meeting was one that I was looking forward to and for me I was not disappointed with Ian.W. and Andy H.taking to the floor and stage to explain about Leaf Pruning on Maples and on some Deciduous Tree such as Beech and Hawthorns

Before that Chairman Iain W mentioned that "Wee Mary" our ever present Young Lady was not in the best of Health and ask Geoff to express the societies best wishes for a speedy recovery

Also Sad News that the Bonsai World has lost one of the Grand Masters of Bonsai. M.r Daizo Iwasaki who passed away On Early May 2011. He spent his life sharing his Love and Passion of Bonsai with the entire Bonsai Community. Takasago-an Bonsai Garden :and no words that could I say would ever match what has already been written about him and images of his work and garden plus The Great Man himself can be seen Here

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t6651-sad-news-for-the-bonsai-world

The Leaf Pruning Session was very well attended with Ian getting to grips with the why's and wherefore of leaf pruning Maples and some Deciduous Trees then Andy doing what he does best getting stuck in with the Scissors and showing how to carry out this task on his Maple plus answering questions from the ever so inquisitive members

An Excellent night was had by all.

Jim the Lad

May Meeting- Speaker -Paul Goff 2

2011-05-31T12:57:00.002Z

Some trees from the evening.

May Meeting- Speaker -Paul Goff 1

2011-05-31T12:20:00.003Z

A nice shot showing the set up-Bring on the next tree....

-IIIs this tree fear?-

moody.....

on your knees!

Yet another Fantastic Night with a guest appearance of Mr. Paul Goff a gentleman who is an extremely Talented Artist in Photography, Video Producing and has been Creating Bonsai since 1970 many of which are now World Renowned. His Work has been featured on Television, Video's. Books, Dvd's,Magazines and Exhibitions throughout the Uk and Europe
(Taking From Bonsai Presention and more info about Paul's can be found At Paul Goff-Official Website)

Iain W. opened the meeting by introducing Paul and soon the 30 or more members were in for a Treat with Paul Producing a Professional Photo Session with the use one light to 3 lights and 2 Different Backdrops, Tripod,Umbrella's, Light Stands Back Light and Model Lights explaining how to get the best out of our Bonsai Trees with Preparation, careful use of Lights ,Distance, how to avoid A Back-Shadow and Paul Photographing some member's Bonsai Trees

The evening went so quick and all members were engrossed on Paul's Presention and Demonstration with more than a few stating it was the best they have came across within the Society. It may be a hard act to follow in the coming months but I am sure the Secretary may have something up his/her sleeve!!

Jim the Lad

Thanks for the report & good photos Jim, (Apologies for the post being late -Ive been on holiday)

Iain

May Gordale workshop

2011-05-31T12:02:00.003Z

After a slow start at the 2nd Workshop this year at Gordales Garden Center,
things really picked up around Midday and lasted till after 4pm with Andy, Arthur and Doug being kept busy answering question's on Chinese Elms, White Pine OakTrees a Serissa. They then did some work on the 4 Trees that visitors bought at Gordales Garden Center or brought into the workshop for help and guidance. They also spent time trying to revive a sorrowful looking White Pine Tree for one young couple. Andy H was asked to do his best and take it home with him and give it back to the couple if he is successful in reviving it.

Once again it was great to to show the public what Wirral Bonsai Society is all about and helping to promote the Bonsai Culture to others on the Wirral, Cheshire and North Wales and further afield

A BIG Thankyou to All The Staff At Gordales Garden Center for the use of their Facilities and welcoming W-B-S into the garden center and we all look forward to the next one on the LAST Sunday in June.

Jim the Lad

April Meeting- Critique 2

2011-04-18T11:33:00.006Z

The effects of a new baby kicking in?........

Really having an effect now.......

April Meeting- Critique

2011-04-18T11:19:00.004Z

Sean's Crab Apple

- Lee exaggerating.... a lot.

Andy H's Maple, looking good as usual.

Tony.... not quite so boastfull!!

Another good show of members at Wednesday Meeting and the Tree Analysis/ Critique" was extremely well presented with Dave Y opening the meeting with a few words about Both Societies ( W-B-S AND V-O-C-B-S ) being represented at "The Best Of Britain Bonsai Show" The session was then kicked off by asking the owner's of the Tree to give a little insight into their tree, what developments and what is the next step to try and move their tree forward . - Ken, brought his tree up to the Table and got the Critique rolling and Lee was first up with his opinions followed by Andy and Tony and all 3 had the members participating in the discussion and this continued all the way through the evening with over 2 Dozen Trees on show and for me it was great to see members participating with suggestions.

Tree of the Month- April

2011-04-18T11:15:00.002Z

ToTM for April was this beautiful Maple belonging to Sean D.

Nice one...

Best of British Bonsai 2011

2011-04-12T12:15:00.003Z

The tree selected as the Best in show

Below is the link to the discussions on last weekends Best of British Bonsai

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t6210-best-of-british-2011

Bonsai Site of the Month -April

2011-04-05T14:38:00.006Z

An obvious one this month..... I'm sure you know the event but here's a link to get your directions and be sure you have enough pennies to pay to get in!!

http://www.bbb2011.com/ ---------

- Good luck to all exhibitors.

Gordale Workshop

2011-03-26T13:05:00.003Z

Just a quick note to anybody thinking of popping along to Gordale this Sunday (27th) -Dont.....they are still revamping there building so there is not the room to host the workshop.

It should be ready in a few weeks so hopefully the workshop can take place nexttime.

Iain

Shohin Off 2011

2011-03-22T13:09:00.005Z

Last weekend the Willowbog 'Shohin off' weekend took place and a number of members and trees attended (plus somebody we used to know !!.......... well done Les.)

click the link to go to the IBC discussion post.

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t5989-shohin-off-2011

Bonsai Review 45

2011-03-18T11:55:00.001Z

click pics to enlarge

50,000 hits

2011-03-14T10:45:00.004Z

For anybody interested, the blog has now had 50,000 hits since I started logging visitors.
It would be good to boast that these are all different people........... but there not.
40k of them are probably Les- he doesn't do much with his days!!

March Meeting- Speaker -John Armitage

2011-03-11T08:47:00.011Z

An enthralled audience

......a strange sort of instruction!

-
John hard at work 'bending'.

Wednesday get together was for me an amazing evening for the way John Armitage- presented the Moving Trees Forward Session, the time just seem to flash by as he was so informative at what he was doing and demonstrated by working on at least 3 or 4 members Bonsai Trees with the odd wise-crack during the demo.

John being Chairman of the British Shohin Association and winner of countless prestigious Awards for his Bonsai Trees, had all the members enthralled in the session plus the The Lady who was serving from the Bar popped her head round the door to listen and see what John was doing with the Trees!

The Society enjoyed success At Swindon-District-Bonsai-Winter-Show-2011 and a selection of W-B-S Images can be seen at the two sites below:

http://bonsai-passion.co.uk/2011/02/20/swindon-district-bonsai-winter-show-2011

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t5694-2011-9th-swindon-winter-image-show-pictures

Jim Thelad

Tree of the Month- March

2011-03-11T08:45:00.006Z

This months T-O-T-M was Prunus Incisa KoJo-No-Mai belonged to Andy H and selected by Mr John Armitage

January Meeting- AGM

2011-03-07T09:29:00.002Z

The AGM......

....& a possible side effect!!

Simon Temblett visited.... but didn't put himself forward for any committee position!

Simon and 'team' evaluate Dee's larch group.

-

The AGM was well attended with some new members joining so that was great news.

It was a Good AGM with the old committee being re-elected and the members thanked the committee for all their hard work during the past year and it was unanimous that they should remain in post. Also 3 other members were elected to the committee And Doug M Volunteered Mrs M to be Secretary which was accepted.

Simon T visited the club and was on hand to give expert advice on a larch group which Dee was seeking help with and it attracted a few members listening to what Simon had to say and chip in with their opinions

There,s a few interesting things that was put forward to help move the club forward and Dave Y made some solid suggestion and if all goes well 2011 should see members improving their knowledge and their Bonsai Trees with a more hands on approach at we all hope with more workshops between W-B-S and V-O-C-B-S but Dave Y will fill you in with more on that
It was another good night at the society with the Committee looking to take the club forward and made many good suggestion as how to improve our standing in the World of Bonsai in the UK or even further

The members were enthusiastic and got involved in the discussions and agree help the committee in their effect to do so and the Vice Chair Reminded the Members It a Members club and not just for the same ones getting involved all the time.

(Apologies for not posting earlier, I didn't realise it hadn't been posted!

Iain)

SoTM-Walter Pall videos

2011-03-01T17:02:00.000Z

For those with good bandwidth this months site is that of walter Pall and includes many videos of his travels and exploits in the bonsai world.

http://walter-pall-videos.blogspot.com/

New Diary Dates and Guests

2011-02-28T15:51:00.004Z

Below are 'hot of the press' enhancements to the club diary.

Next meetings talk is to be given by John Armitage and not Pete warren as billed. The subject is the same......moving your trees on.

May 11th we have Paul Goff giving us a talk on presentation. He will photograph up to 25 club members trees on the night.

The Gordale workshop, last sunday in August, we have booked Steve Tolley. He will work with anybody (brave?) who brings a tree along.
Cheers

Dougie

Happy Birthday to 'Blog' -Again

2011-02-19T08:18:00.000Z

February Meeting -Potting techniques- When, Why & How

2011-02-14T08:41:00.013Z

Tree before...

.... during..
-

...and after the committee aproach to repotting!

Daye Y opened the meeting and meeting and congratulated Ken
for having his tree selected for Best Of British 2011.

Well lots of activity in the room with Dave Y and Dougie M getting stuck in and getting DIRTY also Senior Members Helping out giving advice and passing on their knowledge and I am sure Mark from GD did a roaring trade.

We have been given the go ahead for workshops at Gordales for the last Sunday in the month but since there is work going on at Gordales during February it may be March before it is all up and running.
So it will be up to all to attend at some point when ever possible to make it a success.

Also With GD (Green Dragon ) holding 2 a month there's plenty of opportunity for both Clubs to improve their knowledge and Trees.

Dave Y did stress that not everyone will be attending each one or able to do so its up to us as individuals to attend when we can and work on our trees and help out others (LIKE ME ) who can't tell the difference from one tree to another. [now, now... Jim don't put yourself down.....theres plenty of other that can do that ;)]

Jim the Lad

(Apologies for the late posting)
Iain

Miracid

2011-02-11T16:03:00.005Z

As highlighted and extolled by Dave Y, FYI Miracid has now been renamed
"Miracle-Gro azalea,camellia,&rhododendron"
......for some reason.

Blog reference pages

2011-02-04T13:31:00.000Z

One thing that came up (during a sub committee meeting) was an idea from Dave Y and Andy to set up a sub-section on the blog site whereby people could click onto a heading (say Feeding regime, Pruning etc) and have a document pop up that they can print off with the relevant information, this to save people printing off loads of handoust to give out during there talks. What do you think, is it a possibility?
Regards ..........Dougie

No sooner said........

Pottery Workshop results

2011-02-02T08:52:00.004Z

Above are photos of some of the pots made at the Pottery workshop at Vale of Clwyd in which some Wirral members partook.
Dave B

The selection of pots here serve to visually illustrate the phenomenal success of the pottery workshop help recently at Green Dragon Bonsai. The Vale of Clwyd Bonsai Society had organised a workshop at which participants were given the the choice of making either a rectangular pot or a cascade. Despite the fact that many of us had little or no experience of manipulating clay the patience and skill of Dave Jones ensured everyone finished the day with a pot to be proud of.
V.O.C.B.S. are proposing to hold another such event during 2011 and I would encourage anyone interested in having a go at making a bonsai pot to sign up.
A really successful event, Good banter, coupled with precise and humorous direction. Many thanks to Dave Jones and Walsall Ceramics
Dave Y

They all look really good to me.

Iain

Bonsai Site of the Month -January

2011-01-14T09:17:00.002Z

Thsi months site is a new one set up in America with some nice Yamadori.

http://www.bonsaimirai.com/

Lack of Posts

2011-01-10T09:05:00.002Z

Hi All,
Just a quick apology for lack of posts recently, a bereavement in the family has limited my time.

Regards

Iain

Interesting item on IBC

2011-01-10T08:57:00.003Z

Link Courtesy of Dave B

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/t5241-viewing-distance-in-bonsai

One of the important aspects that is not adequately addressed to in Bonsai is the viewing distance. All the efforts that are put into creating a tree over the years finally culminate in a good Bonsai. While I am not getting into the aspect of what makes a good Bonsai but presuming that such a goal is achieved, brings us to the next step.

How do we best appreciate the Bonsai? It is important to note that I am using the word “appreciate” and not “critique” very consciously. For me the objective of bonsai creation, all the years of blood sweat and tears is to create an object of art which is best enjoyed by appreciation and not being pulled down in the name of critique. Getting back to the point of how do we best appreciate bonsai. While there are guidelines a plenty in bonsai creation, I have often wondered what would be the best distance to appreciate a bonsai. The other aspect of Bonsai appreciation, namely Bonsai display has been more than adequately addressed by many over the years though.

After much thought I feel that the best distance for appreciating a bonsai should be far enough so that the viewer get a complete view of the tree. It should not be too far so that the viewer misses out on the finer aspects of the tree but also not too close so that one gets a closer view of a few parts of the tree but not the complete view of the tree. As is understandable, the viewing distance depends on the size of the tree. So to arrive at a general guideline (I hate the word rule…) the viewing distance should be a function of the height of the tree. Like we have a girth of the trunk to the height ratio, I feel that a ratio of the height of the tree to the viewing distance should ideally be 1:4. So for a tree that is a foot tall a safe viewing distance should be 4 feet.

Standing at such a distance also makes the illusion of a tree in its natural habitat more realistic. The dangers or rather disadvantages of viewing a tree too close are often unnecessary nitpicking in the name of adherence to rules. While I do believe in rules and their importance in creating a bonsai, what I am against is missing out on the bigger picture in the name of rules. Pointing out an inverse tapered trunk or an eye poking branch that blends rather well into the overall image of the tree are another such cases. Such instances of myopic rule book criticism can be avoided by viewing a tree in its completeness at a correct distance. I have also been bemused at knowledgeable enthusiasts at times examining the flakiness of branches….which would not be visible when one views the tree from a 1:4 distance.

Thoughts (agreements and disagreements) are most welcome….

Ravi

Bonsai Traders Events 2011

2010-12-16T14:32:00.003Z

Click the link below for info on next years BTA events throughout the country.

http://www.bonsaitraders.org.uk/Main%20Pages/04Shows.htm

Bonsai Review 41

2010-12-16T13:57:00.002Z

December meeting-Christmas Social

2010-12-13T09:53:00.006Z

The usual excellent spread....

This year Santa will mainly be wearing black..

"we wish you a merry (?) Christmas.......

......and a happy new year."

Once again the food was great and the Ladies deserve a mention for there hard work, and laying out all the food plus cleaning up after everyone had enough to eat. Also Bill and Doug and Mrs Mudd stepped into the hot seat with organising the raffle and prizes Bill did his best to make sure everyone got a prize in his usual manner.

Jim the Lad

Tree of the Month- December

2010-12-13T09:49:00.004Z

This month's ToTM- owned by somebody called Rafa C. Lub!!
(sounds Spanish to me.)

Bonsai Site of the Month -December

2010-12-01T08:40:00.000Z

This months site is one put forward by Jim the lad (thanks Jim.... need all the help I can get tracking down new and interesting web sites -Big hint to anybody reading this!!!)

ofbonsai is run by Paul Stokes, who has replaced Knowledge of Bonsai with this site following encountering 'issues' with KoB.

http://ofbonsai.org/

November ToTM (Not)

2010-11-15T10:23:00.002Z

No tree of the month was chosen this month but here's a few that were on display, to make up for the lack of pictures showing what the club is actually about......trees!!

WBS Merchandising

2010-11-12T13:45:00.009Z

Club members provide details for trees that are to be highlighted in a possible publication that will include 'significant' trees belonging to WBS members .

Ian shows off the new club T shirt......

.......and does a brisk trade for orders.....mainly XXXL ?

November Meeting-Winter prep.

2010-11-12T13:14:00.008Z

A nice full house for Dave's talk.

Some of the items put forward for use in tree care.

Dave's attempts to think like a tree are getting a little worrying if you ask me!!

Mark seems to be doing a roaring trade in fleece covers- was Dave getting a cut of the profits?

This months meeting featured Dave Y who gave ( I believe) a very informative and thought provoking talk on winter preparation for your trees.

As Jim the Lad suggests "one of the best I have heard at the club since I have been there"

-praise indeed.

"Dave chatted about how important it was to look after our trees and used items to show the members what he uses or suggests for keeping his trees healthy during winter months, including polystyrene boxes, using a Fleeze or Warming jackets,making boxes and what to put inside the box to put the trees on and covering them up and what to use for cleaning the trees. Also the importance of the Dormancy period for the trees and explaining that some trees don't have one, The use of Greenhouses, Garages and different ways to keep water from freezing up in the Bonsai pot."

Jim the Lad

Dougie's Box Graphic

2010-11-05T09:38:00.008Z

For those who saw the stencil at the last meeting, here's Doug's 1st use of it!!
Looks good to me.
Plus I believe Doug's open to applying it to boxes anybody already has, so that you look 'complete', when entering your next show venue.

A link to Doug's site is below.
http://www.dougmuddbonsaitables.com/index.html

November Site of the Month

2010-11-04T00:05:00.005Z

This months site ( see link below ) is a new(ish) online bonsai community that purports to be a 'place to make friends, ask for advice, share the beauty of your own Bonsai collection, offer your own expertise,learn from our reference library and each other.'

I notice Jim the Lad has already found it!

http://www.bonsaibasho.com/

Test post

2010-10-25T00:22:00.001Z

From my iPhone

September Meeting- Workshop -Trees

2010-10-18T13:01:00.002Z

Pine

-
Olive
-

Privet?

Common Juniper

September Meeting- Workshop

2010-10-18T12:26:00.005Z

Ian pays homage to a large privet (?)

Busy, busy,busy.... refining a nice piece of garden yamadori.

Design by committee?.....can be dangerous!

You haven't seen me ......right?

Ceramic Workshop

2010-10-14T14:30:00.003Z

Another item mentioned last night was the VoCB ceramics workshop- follow the link below for Kev Baileys photo gallery of the day.

http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/kevbailey111/20101010?feat=blogger#

How many familiar faces can you spot??

Bonsai Autumn 2010 Show

2010-10-14T11:57:00.003Z

As mentioned by Ian last night find the link to the IBC discussion below

http://ibonsaiclub.forumotion.com/bonsai-f1/bonsai-autumn-2010-t4439.htm

October SoTM

2010-10-05T19:02:00.005Z

This months site is actually one that been visited before but for anybody that has missed Grahams videos or not caught up with his latest additions, below is a link to one of 30 videos.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72-glgsc0HA&feature=related

Interesting......

Wirral bonsai Show 2010- certificates of merit 2

2010-09-10T23:21:00.004Z

Andy's accents...

.. with Andy recieving his certificate from the Judges Peter Warren and John Armitage

Last but not least Mark K with his English Yew.

Apologies for the delay in getting the pics up, my internet access went down while in France!!

Wirral bonsai Show 2010- certificates of merit 1

2010-09-07T22:49:00.006Z

Trees receiving -Certificate Of Merit

Les S -Shohin Display

Iain Q -Buxus

Sean D -Larch

Best Tree Voted By The Public and winner of the Dave Mitchell trophy was

Ken's -Landscape of Larches

with the trophy presented by Dave Mitchell's family

Wirral Bonsai Show 2010-Award winners

2010-09-07T22:30:00.003Z

Best In Show -Dave Y

Best Evergreen -Lee K

Best Deciduous -Steve H

Best Chohin -Ian W

Best Shohin -Doug M

Wirral Bonsai Show 2010 -set up

2010-09-04T20:45:00.004Z

Anybody in there??

Its my mechano kit..... and I say it goes this way......

A bit of 'shadow theatre' to help entertain the troups!!!

...bottom rights a bit sinister???

Nearly there...

Thanks to to Jim 'the Lad' for the photos.

Wirral Bonsai Show @ Gordale 4th/5th September

2010-09-01T13:12:00.022Z

Some of the action currently taking place.

.........I imagine!?

A previous years show.
-

Below is a link to directions to Gordale, the venue for this years show.

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/place?hl=en-GB&rlz=1T4DMUK_en-GB___GB205&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=gordale&fb=1&gl=uk&hq=gordale&cid=6562559939445901050

I wish I could say 'see you there'..........

I won't..........but my tree will !!!!

.....So have a good time and good luck to you all.

Shohin Off

2010-08-24T22:42:00.001Z

Thought some of you guys n gals might find the BSA 2011 show details of some interest!!

August Meeting -Show prep. -Some trees

2010-08-17T17:21:00.004Z

August Meeting -Show prep. -Selection

2010-08-17T17:07:00.003Z

Contemplation, meditation or sedation??

Well........where do we start?

...if it was mine............

The rejects...........only joking!!

Message from Mr Tolley

2010-08-03T12:01:00.006Z

Following my sending of what I thought would be a late BoBB 2011 entry, it seems Steve is of a mind to "kick a few ar**s up our way" as apparently club entries are conspicuous by there absence.

Lee- your gluteus maximus was a particular target!!

If your tree was preselected at last years show, you still need to send an entry.

Come on you lot, get your act together.......

August SoTM

2010-08-03T07:40:00.002Z

http://www.brookssalzwedel.com/index.php?/selectedworks/untitled-1/

Above is a link to a site that, though it isnt exactly Bonsai related contains some very fine images that I'm sure we can all appreciate.

gordale Workshop -trees

2010-07-27T19:25:00.004Z

A selection of some of the trees being worked on.