The joys of summer

Delighted to see that there is still a touch of summer splendour in  our towns and villages.
Though autumn is surely on the way and with it the promise of a host of colour in the leaves in the fall, the intense colour of hanging baskets, window shelves, street furniture and planters produces a sense of warmth in itself.
This particular display is on the railings skirting a busy roundabout junction on the outskirts of the Hampshire market town of Romsey, but I have seen countless similar floral displays in a number of towns on the south coast this week, and let’s keep our fingers crossed there are still more fine warm days like today to enjoy yet.
The rain of the past days has been a two edged sword in our garden at home at least.  Oh, yes, it has brought much needed water for many of the floral displays like this, setting the floral thirst buds in action. At the same time though it has devastated many of the blooms and the flower crowns. Our hanging baskets appeared almost neglected after one day’s rain, yet they’ve been deadheaded every day.

Still, this is a right royal display and the epitome of others throughout the town. Full marks to the city, borough and town fathers for bringing some sparkle to our daily lives.