Eco boost for Winchelsea Hall

The well attended event was a sequel to the successful Country House Arts and Crafts Fair held in Winchelsea New Hall in June,

The day consisted of a series of talks, illustrations, creative ideas and insights by talented local textile, carpet, interior and garden designers.

Sarah Charles, who organised and designed the day, talked about the Chelsea Physic Garden and her new book, using pictures of the garden throughout the year. It also included recipies from the Tangerine Dream Café, based in the Gardens.

Lunch was prepared and served by the TDC inspirational chefs, Limpet Barron and David Hughes, who came down from London for the day and were on hand to give cooking tips.

Other speakers included: Richard Smith on textile design, who talked about his work and new collection for Jim Thompson Designs; Alastair Fairley, a highly talented designer, writer and historic consultant; Sarnia Spencer Moore from Ketcher & Moore Designs, who gave an insight into interior design and why consulting a design professional pays dividends

Tim Page Carpets showed the inspiration behind the new collection of colourful designed hand –made woolen rugs, inspired by Great Dixter House and Gardens.

Charles Newington, artist, painter and muralist, talked about commissioning paintings for buildings, murals and his amazing creation of the Great White Horse on the Cliff at Dover.

The New Hall was decked out in vintage bunting and a plant stall specialising in Fuschias was open during lunch.

Donald Cameron-Clarke said: “This highly original and well supported fun day, is one in a series of events which have been planned by the New Hall Society. These two events have, so far, raised in excess of £1,500.

The New Hall Society is particularly indebted to Sarah Charles for her inspired leadership and delivery of a memorable and enjoyable day supported in no small way by the following Society members; Dorothy Piggott (Chairman), Sue Chetwood, Peta Cameron-Clarke and Sue Moore