On formation of the North East Counties Fuchsia Group it was decided to stage a major event every other year. So we had  1994 Leeds (1994), Bridlington (1996) and Harrogate (1998). All had proved very memorable events creating great goodwill for the Fuchsia Societies involved - the general public being most appreciative of the wonderful displays. These Festivals are still frequently talked about - many happy memories!


For 2000 Lincoln was the venue. Preparations for the Lincoln Millennium Festival had been going on for  2 years. For a special year a special venue was needed - and Lincoln Castle acquired Being part of the authority's summer programme, marquee, publicity was free Quite a coupe!!

Scarborough & District Fuchsia Society is greatly indebted to Peter Long & David Edmond, who kindly volunteered to plan, organise and stage display on Society's behalf. Other  Society members also helped growing plants for the display.

Whilst assembling the display - a few heart-stopping moments were experienced as it was the very first time the complete wheel had been activated. No worries - it worked a treat! The meticulous planning had paid off. The wheel was stunning. The overall display well balanced. The standard of plants excellent. Hence, compliments galore, it looked superb and  it was  pleasure to steward the display as it was constantly surrounded by an appreciative crowd!!
Cultivars used on the big wheel were, Snowwhite, Pink Panther, Bertha Gadsby, President George Bartlett, Blue Hawaii, Claudia, Sylvia Barker & La Campanella. Especially the nearly luminous Bertha Gadsby and the deep aubergine President George Bartlett stood out.

Though we proudly proclaim our 'big wheel' the most stunning display and undoubtedly the big talking point of the Millennium Fuchsia Festival, the other participating Societies made superb efforts too.
The show was also greatly enhanced by displays by:
The B.F.S. which included a section of species
Kathleen Muncaster Nursery, staging a nicely laid out hardy fuchsias display
Peter Stott, with a spectacular display of 115 triphyllas in big buckets all along the side of the main marquee

Our compliments to the organising committee. Special commendation to the bright spark who suggested Lincoln Castle - a wonderful choice, well done John Green, a stroke of genius!
Thanks also to the Castle Authorities, the NECFG committee, to our own David Edmond & Peter Long planning, constructing, and growing plants for our display and other members, growing plants, helping with transport and being there stewarding. Well done all.