The Society Liaison Page. For some time the Caley had encouraged stronger liaison with other societies in Scotland and, following a meeting on Saturday 12th May, 2001, the concept of 'a Liaison Group of Scottish Horticultural Societies' was launched. This is now called the Scottish Gardeners' Forum. The most up-to-date information on the forum is given on a dedicated website HERE, but here is some background information.

The forum's objectives are:

1. To encourage interest, best practice and excellence in Scotland in all aspects of gardening and horticulture.

2. To create an awareness and foster co-operation among Gardening Societies/Clubs/Associations/Branches for their mutual benefit.

3. To encourage the retention and development of existing and new Societies.

4. To provide a voice for the non-professional sector of gardening in Scotland.

The Forum's first project, a Register of Scottish Horticultural Societies, has been essential in locating societies. The current contacts number 225 and have proved to be an invaluable way of distributing information on Gardening Scotland for example. Many more societies remain to be traced and assistance from 'listed' societies in locating these 'unknowns' would be much appreciated.

The second project is a Register of Speakers on Horticultural Topics, which should prove very beneficial in programme planning. This is in the form of a booklet which is available to members of the forum. Again more information is always sought to increase the number of entries. So, speakers, please don't be modest. If a society thinks you are good enough to put forward, then you are good enough to take your place on this list.

Other services available under the umbrella of the Scottish Gardener's Forum are:

- Public Liability Insurance, amongst other benefits, can be arranged at very competitive rates.

- Copies of the "Caledonian Gardener" are available each year.

- Please make contact for more information.

Please note following the first AGM of the Scottish Gardener's Forum a report of that AGM is on their website at: http://www.scottishgardenersforum.org.uk