A time for resolutions, reflections.... cliches abound.

Ten years ago, on the 26th January 2000, Peter and I became the new proprietors of Potager, which was then known as High Cross Nurseries Garden Centre. Before we bought the redundant commercial property from Rex and Margaret Gregory they kindly allowed us to cut a Christmas tree from the lower field and spend the Millenium eve standing in our new "wonderland". Clutching a travel clock, a solitary firework and a bottle of Champagne we patiently waited. Being alone in the dark we launched the rocket skywards in keen anticipation, celebrating minutes before the rest of the parish!

Reflecting on the first decade of the new century, our first ten years as 'fourth generation garden centre managers' I wonder where we will be in 2020?

In January 2009 we joined forces with Mark Harris and I am heartened by this comment of his "I would like to think I could go away and come back in ten years and find that Potager would be just the same". Physical change is inevitable and great improvements have happened under Marks leadership over the past twelve months, what I feel Mark was alluding to was the atmosphere of the Potager, its' sense of place, its' friendly character, our philosophies.

So now together with Mark and his partner Saffa we will continue to garden organically, welcome visitors to our project - this season every Saturday as well as the usual Sundays and of course by appointment at other times, and to share our space, knowledge and produce with others. Fridays are volunteer days to help work in the garden along side us.

The highlight of the first ten years for me is very simply "getting this far in the project". A huge sense of pride in Potager as a 'whole'. Managing land can be physical hard work, taking on the 'lost nursery of High Cross' was an exciting once in a lifetime challenge.

Happy New Year everyone, we all look forward to seeing you in the garden over the coming season.