Our speaker last month, Steve Dowbiggin (OBE), presented an absolutely stunning, entertaining and amusing talk, as he revealed many of the Manor’s secrets and we all like to know a secret or two. Steve is the longest serving college principle in the country with 33 years service, his accomplishments and commitment were recognised in 2007 when he was awarded an OBE. Steve’s extensive knowledge of the Manor is second to none, he explained the history of the Manor, which goes back to the 13th Century and brought us to the present time.
It
was interesting to hear how Steve used his various contacts from inside
and outside the gardening world to help raise money for different
restoration projects at Capel Manor. Steve told us wonderful and funny
stories about the Queen, Princess Ann and the late Queen Mother who at
101 opened a garden planted by students to celebrate her Centenary. It
was equally interesting to hear about Margaret Thatcher’s visit to the
Manor and Steve’s role in that visit, and how Capel Manor retained the
title of the National Gardening Centre.
The
gardens are just one aspect of Capel Manor, the other is the College
which Steve was most involved with. The college started with around 15
students, today it is London’s leading gardening and environmental
college with 6 campuses across London. In addition there is also the
Zoo, which offers educational talks on the animals which live there.
Capel
Manor has been a favourite of mine for many years, with over 60
different gardens and landscapes to explore I found something new on
every visit. Capel Manor was the first to have a Faith Garden giving a
space where different religions can visit. Following Steve Dowbiggin’s
talk I am keen to return and see what is new at Capel and enjoy the
gardens even more with the benefit of Steve’s wonderful talk. Thank you
Steve for a really great evening.
