News

FOGG News
(Also -- Check out the Events Page for an updated list of Events organised by FOGG)

FOGG SUMMER 2020 PROGRAMME IS LAUNCHED
Our Programme of Events for Summer 2020 has just been launched. Check out the full list by clicking in to the Events Page.

CHRISTMAS SING-A-LONG
Our Christmas Sing-A-Long was attended by huge numbers this year. All enjoyed the mix of traditional carols and festive songs. Fortunately the threatened rain stayed away. Thanks to all who came along.

2020 GALA CRUISE QUIZ NIGHT IS A SELL OUT!
As at 22 November 2019 all 90 Tickets for the March 2020 Quiz Night are sold!
The Evening will be a Cruise Themed Night and participants are being asked to come dressed for the Captain's Table, a member of the Crew OR in Deck Attire!!
Thank you to all who have reserved their tickets so early.

CHRISTMAS QUIZ IS A SELL OUT!!
All 90 Tickets for our Christmas Cracker Quiz in November 2019 sold out in mid September.
Thank You to all who have bought tickets to support this event.
Tickets costing £10 for our Spring Quiz on 20 March 2020 can now be ordered. As at 21 September 2019, 22 Tickets have already been sold.So please order early.
Contact:
Jane Chandler
T:01305 775829
E: janechandler123@hotmail.com

CANCELLED PERFORMANCE
We regret to say that the performance by the Silhouettes on 30 June 2019 in Greenhill Gardens has been cancelled
So Sorry for any inconvenience

Preston Register Letter
In June 2019 a letter appeared in the Preston Register and the Wyke Register from Angela Goodman of Bowleaze Cove Weymouth.
It incorrectly criticised FOGG for the handling of a matter relating to the Weymouth Sea Swimmers Group.The latter group have used Greenhill Gardens changing facilities while swimming in the sea.
However the letter writer has mixed up FOGG with the group who have been granted a 30 year lease of part of the Greenhill Gardens.-- the Greenhill Community Trust CIC Ltd.
A public apology has been requested from Angela Goodman.
Please note that FOGG has no connection at all with the Greenhill Community Trust CIC Ltd or any other organisation and the Directors of the Trust are not Committee Members of FOGG.

Celebration Arch is Opened
An interested crowd watched Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Angus Campbell officially open the Celebration Arch on on 1 April 2019.
The Arch celebrates the Long reign of Queen Elizabeth II

The Mad Hatter's Crazy Quiz Night
A SELL OUT crowd of 84 enjoyed a fantastic FUN Quiz Night at the Preston Village Hall on 22 March. The White Rabbit made a visit and the evening finished with an Aluminium Tubes Race! -- A Mad Evening.
Next Quiz is on 22 November.Contact Jane NOW for your Tickets!
E:janechandler123@hotmail.com
T: 01305 775829

FOGG Quiz Night -- sold out!
Our Quiz Night on 22 March at the Preston Village Hall is a SELL OUT!
Thank you to all those who have bought tickets.

Celebration Arch
The Celebration Arch in the Gardens will be opened on 1 April 2019 at 2.30pm by Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Angus Campbell.
All Welcome

FOGG Spring 2019 Newsletter
The Spring Newsletter is now available.
Click into the "Newsletter" Bar above to read your copy.
For a hard copy please contact Jane Chandler 01305 775829

2019 has arrived!! --- Happy New Year to you all!!
A busy Programme of Musical Events has been planned for 2019 in the Gardens. Please check out the Events Page for full details.
FOGG Members Graham Dubben, Tim Spooner, Jane Chandler, Tony Tunbridge and Paula Tunbridge have all done sterling work in building a shed in the Gardens which will house the tables and various items owned by FOGG that are used in the Gardens each year

Christmas Singing 2018
A Christmas Sing-a-Long was enjoyed by over 120 people in December . It was the last event of the year. Mulled wine and mince pies were enjoyed as we sang various carols and finished with The 12 Days of Christmas

The Website (posted 19 August)
This week the FOGG website was visited for the first time by over 1,000 people!!! -- Thank you for your Support

In the Gardens (posted 9 July)
Part of the roof of the two tier chalet block collapsed in July. No one was injured. The Wishing Well in the Gardens has been broken into the Authorities have been informed.

FOGG and gifts (posted 9 July)
We are delighted and very grateful to receive gifts from Weymouth Rotary Club for £330 and Melcombe Regis Rotary Club for £250 -- Thank you so so much

FOGG's Bandstand Roof (posted 10 May)
FOGG's Bandstand roof was badly damaged by a December storm. A new one has now been made and is in place ready for the first musical event on 27 May.

Weldmar Hospice and Sunflowers Memories (posted 10 May)
Weldmar Hospice are having a display of sunflowers in the Gardens from 23 August. They are made of metal and are placed in the ground in memory of a loved one. To dedicate a sunflower and obtain further details please contact the Fundraising Office on 01305 261800

FOGG Annual General Meeting (posted 3 April)
All are Welcome to come along to the FOGG AGM on Friday 13 April 2018 at 4pm in The Conservatory, Weldmar Hospice, Greenhill, Weymouth

Contract for the Royal Waves Arch (posted 14 March)
We are delighted to announce that the Royal Waves Arch has now been ordered. The structure will now be built off site and erected after the end of the current Summer season

Talks about the Gardens and FOGG (posted 1 March)
We are often asked by Groups to do talks about the History of the Gardens and FOGG. The last one was in February to the Weymouth & Portland Friendship Group. -- They are very interesting, very entertaining and very free!...If you'd like to arrange one for your Group then please contact Committee Member Iain Campbell 01305 768446

The Arch for Greenhill Gardens Entrance
(posted 26 Feb)
We have been planning an Entrance Arch for the Gardens for some time. It is to be sited at the entrance on the Esplanade near the seascape Cafe.
A picture of the proposed design can be seen opposite.The design mimics a wave coming in from the sea and crashing into the Gardens
Originally referred to as The Queen Elizabeth II Celebration Arch, because of the wave element it has now been called "The Royal Wave!"

Seascape cafe seek planning Permission
(posted 26 Feb)
The lessees of the Seascape Cafe in the Gardens have applied for planning consent to have a first floor balcony on the front of the building and an internal seating area. Copies of the plans can be seen on the Council's website

Bandstand Structure being re-erected (posted 17 Feb)
The Bandstand in the Gardens was damaged as a result of the Winter winds. A new Structure to take the roof and sides has now been erected. A new covering will be in place before the start of the musical events in May.

Spring Newsletter is out!(posted 17 Feb)2019A chance to see the Queen Elizabeth II Celebration Arch in 3D form
We are commissioning a Celebration Arch to be sited at the entrance to the Gardens on the Esplanade.
TheALL WELCOME
Please fill in the Consultation Form to leave your views.
They will be much appreciated.

Bandstand damaged in the wind (posted 16 December)
The Bandstand in the Gardens was severely damaged in the winds of a December night. We will have it restored for the first event of the 2018 season.

FOGG --- CHRISTMAS SINGING IN THE GARDENS HAS BEEN CANCELLED!! (posted at 2pm on 10 December)
We are so sorry to say that our planned Singing in the Gardens for 10 December at 3pm has been.
Sorry if you have been inconvenienced.

FOGG November Quiz Night -- A SELL OUT! (Posted 6 October)
Our Christmas Cracker Quiz is now Sold Out.
Thank you to all who have bought tickets to support the Event.
Please Ring Barbara Dubben to go on our List for the next Quiz Night (01305 768446)

FOGG November Quiz Night! (posted 1 October)
Half the Tickets have now gone for our next FUN Quiz Night!
Tickets £9 including Fish & Chips Supper from Barbara:
T: 01305 782419
E: barbara782419@hotmail.co.uk
The Function Room, Brewers Fayre Lodmoor, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth

FOGG's Autumn Newsletter (posted 22 September)
Get YOUR copy of FOGG's Autumn Newsletter by Clicking on "More" above and then "Newsletter"

GREAT response to FOGG November Quiz Night! (Posted on 21 September)
Our last Quiz of the year has been eagerly awaited. In just a couple of weeks almost half the tickets have gone!
If you'd like to come you will be very welcome, but please order soon.
Friday 17 November at 7.30pm
£50 CASH FIRST PRIZE
Entry Ticket Prize
20 Raffle Prizes
Lucky Christmas Cracker
Joker Double points on a Round
Different Subject Rounds
£9 including Fish & Chips Supper
FREE PARKING
Tickets from Barbara:
T: 01305 782419
E: barbara782419@hotmail.co.uk
The Function Room, Brewers Fayre Lodmoor, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth

Ironman Event comes to Weymouth
2600 triathletes swam, cycled and ran from a base in Weymouth on Sunday 17 September. They ran past Greenhill Gardens as part of the competition which is now a major event which hopefully will return every year to Weymouth. Although roads were shut the event provides a major financial boost to the area.

Radio Solent and the Greenhill Gardens' latest Project
On 31 August FOGG Committee Member lain Campbell was invited to the Radio Solent studio in Dorchester to have a chat about the proposed Arch in the Gardens. This relates to FOGG's latest project of designing and erecting an impressive arch at the entrance to the Gardens from the Esplanade. Initial designs are now been discussed and funding is being sought to supplement the monies FOGG have collecting during the past few months from events in the Gardens. It is to be named "The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Arch."

Fantastic Summer Fayre
On 13 August we held our Summer Fayre in the Gardens. Hundreds of people came along to enjoy Darron Garnett sing and watch Twirl Academy.

New Photos of the Gardens (July 2017)
Check out some amazing photos of the Gardens taken by Ben Nolan-Stone by clicking "More" and "Photos of the Gardens and Events"

Gardens Win Green Flag
Greenhill Gardens has been awarded with a Green Flag for the Eleventh successive year. Congratulations to the Council and Gardners who keep the Gardens looking great.

FOGG appear in Dorset Life
Our article about the Ten Year History of FOGG has appeared in the July Edition of Dorset Life at page 38

Triathletes go through the Gardens
On Sunday 16 July hundreds of Triathletes raced through the Gardens and into the Tennis Courts. They had finished  their swim in Weymouth Bay and were collecting their bikes in the tennis courts for a grueling ride. Then it was back to the start for a massive effort in running!

Quangle Wangles appear on Bandstand
The delightful, and talented singers from the Quangle Wangle Choir entertained the crowds on the Bandstand on 2 July

Weymouth Rotary donate to FOGG
At a recent meeting of Weymouth Rotary, FOGG Chair Barbara Dubben was presented with a cheque for £300 towards FOGG funds. Thank You to the Rotarians for such a great Gift

FOGG take part in Civic Week (posted 21 June 2017)
All the FOGG Committee Members were dressed in Victorian attire in the Gardens on 17 June to help celebrate Civic Week.
Deputy Mayor Gill Taylor arrived and was presented with a bouquet by Katie.
Later Queen Victoria and her attendant, a Duchess, processed along the Esplanade and came in to the Gardens for the afternoon. Both received bouquets by Katie and Rosie.
The Bandstand was decked with bunting and flags with a floral display provided by Martin Young at MY Plants in Upwey.

Council update their Noticeboard
In June 2017 the Council improved the Noticeboard sited at one of the entrances to the Gardens (see photo opposite)

Weymouth Beach
Weymouth Beach was placed a magnificent Sixth in the "Beach of the Year Survey" featuring Britain's best beaches by the Sunday Times on 2 June 2017

FOGG Committee members at the start of Civic Week (posted14 June)
FOGG Committee Members dressed in Victorian attire were in the Haven Owners Lounge on the Esplanade Weymouth to witness the Mayor announce the start of Civic Week. -- A photo of the event appear in The Echo on 13 June

FOGG in The Echo and The Preston Register (posted 30 May)
FOGG celebrates 10 years this year since it was formed. An article celebrating this milestone appears in The Dorset Echo for 30 May and The Preston Register for June. Both articles also list the events in the Gardens this year. (see our Events Page for details of all the year's events)

In May the Fisher Family from Southampton are in the Gardens (posted 23 May)
The Fisher family were visiting Weymouth and were spotted having an ice cream in the Gardens. You are very welcome and we hope you'll come back another day. (see photo opposite)

Gardens are inspected as part of the Green Flag Awards (posted 23 May)
In May Greenhill Gardens was visited by two Inspectors to check if they were up to the high standards for the Green Flag Award. Much of the criteria is in the hands of the Council in relation to the look and planting of the Gardens. However community involvement is also a consideration and FOGG were able to supply the Inspectors with information about the huge range of activities in the Gardens this year. (See photo opposite)

Fantastic start to the Summer of Musical Entertainment in the Gardens (posted 22 May)
Hundreds of people thronged in to the Gardens on Sunday 21 May at the start of the season of musical fun. Local band The Silhouettes entertained the crowds as they sat, and some danced the afternoon away.
Bright sunshine, blue skies with a bit of wind were the order of the day. FOGG Committee members had a great raffle and collected monies towards the next major project in the Gardens -- An Arch at the entrance.
Check out the Events Page for details of all the Summer events. Next one is on 4 June with the incredible Weymouth UkuIeleans -- They are a HUGE amount of FUN!

Visit to the Gardens by VH Bennett's relatives from Wales (posted 21 May)
In the Gardens in May were a group visiting from Wales. They were particularly interested in the Bennett Shelter which has a prominent position in the Gardens because they are connected to VH Bennett who was a prominent Weymouth mayor and ran VH Bennetts the famous Weymouth Departmental Store. (see photo opposite)

Richard Bennett was the son of Alfred Edwin Bennett and Grandson of Alfred John Bennett, Architect and Surveyor of 10 Gloucester Terrace, Weymouth. V H Bennett was his Great Uncle. Much of his time, pre-war, was spent on holiday in Weymouth with his father’s family. The Group’s trip was to re-visit many of the places which were significant to him.

Vilat Hackforth Bennett, was a man who went on and played a principle role in Weymouth’s commerce and town council. Vilat became a major participant in the town’s politics, going on to become Mayor at the end of the WWI. He was a man full of big ideas and a view to the town’s future. He wanted nothing but the best for his place of birth.
Whilst in his role as Mayor, so frustrated and ashamed did he become at the apathy of the council committee to agree to a memorial for those hundreds of local men who died during the First World War, that he paid for a memorial. Its official title is the Armistice Shelter and it sits in prime position in Greenhill Gardens. So it is a memorial to our brave men who lost their lives during WWI.
Vilat Bennett was also the business brains behind the opening one of Weymouth’s largest and busiest department stores in the 1920’s. It went on to become the V H Bennetts, the local’s first port of call for all manner of items.

FOGG and a photo shoot (posted 17 May)
FOGG Chair Barbara Dubben and Graham Dubben were in Portland yesterday to attend a photo shoot for the Big Outdoor Weekend launch.
The Dorset Echo featured a photo of some of the groups participating with a write up in the paper on 16 May.
See photo on this page.

FOGG take part in "BIG Dorset Outdoor Weekend"(Posted 16 May)
FOGG is a participator in the BDOW Celebrations. -- A number of events are highlighted for the weekend of 20/21 May and FOGG's musical event on 21 May in the Gardens featuring The Silhouettes is one of them.

FOGG and Facebook (Posted 13 May)
FOGG has now linked in to Facebook to provide more coverage for our activities and the Gardens generally. Getting us set up with Facebook is largely down to FOGG supporter Fiona Higgins. She lives in Corfe Mullen but is a regular visitor to Weymouth and enjoys many of the musical afternoons and Quizzes. So a BIG THANK YOU goes to her!
Within an hour of launching the Facebook account we had 45 Likes!!! -- Lots of photos of previous events appear in the Photos pages.
The website currently gets about 800 clicks a week and more will be clicking in to get details of the Events in the Summer.
Thanks so so much for all your Support.

Bandstand is made ready for Summer Events (Posted 13 May)
FOGG Members have re-erected the Summer roof and sides on to the Bandstand this month. Our musical events start on 21 May with the arrival of fantastic Group The Silhouettes. -- Check out the Events Page and Facebook for more details

Flying Fish appear again in the Gardens (posted 13 May)
The wooden fish painted by children from local primary schools are back on the tennis courts fencing. It has been described as "The Country's only Waterless Aquarium!" Come and check them out! -- A flock of pink Flamingos will be arriving from some part of the world soon to join them!

Gardens are to be checked by Green Flag Inspectors next week (Posted 13 May)
Each year the Gardens get inspected to see if they meet the criteria for a Green Flag Award. FOGG have an involvement because the Inspectors like to see Community involvement in the Gardens. Members of the FOGG Committee will be meeting the Inspectors with the Council Team next Thursday.

FOGG announce new Summer Line up on the Bandstand
(posted May 2017)
FOGG have announced a whole new selection of great entertainment on the Bandstand for the 2017 Summer Season.
Check out the Events Page above for full details.
In addition to Gardens Events a new Race Night at Pilgrim House, Hope Square, Weymouth is planned for October and a Quiz Night at Brewers Fayre Lodmoor, Weymouth for November

FOGG AGM (posted 5 April)
The FOGG AGM took place on 4 April 2017 at The Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Weymouth. Chair Trevor Collins and Committee Member Annemarie Collins have stepped down.
Your new Committee are as follows:
Chair: Barbara Dubben
Secretary: Pat Lacey
Treasurer: Tim Spooer
Publicity: Iain Campbell
Committee: Di Bailey, Ray Brown, Penny Brown, Graham Dubben, Sue Clark, Pat Scarlett, Joy Stanley and
Associate Member from Weymouth & Portland Council: Tara Williams

QUIZ NIGHT CANCELLATION (Posted 28 March)
We are really sorry but our Quiz Night on 7 April has had to be cancelled. Sorry to inconvenience anybody

AN INCREDIBLE QUIZ NIGHT! (Posted 8 March)
Come and join in the FUN at our first Quiz Night of the Year!!!.... Scrummy Food and Easy Questions and a whole load of FUN!!
Its a Quiz Night like no other!!!...
The Function Room, The Brewers Fayre, Lodmoor, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth
7.30pm Friday 7 April. £9 Light Supper included
Teams of up to 6 people.
Tickets: Barbara on 782419
E: barbara@baylodge.co.uk

FOGG's AGM (posted 8 March)
Our AGM will be held in The Function Room, The Brewers Fayre, Lodmoor, Preston Beach Road Weymouth at 8pm on Tuesday 4 April 2017. -- All are welcome

FOGG's SPRING NEWSLETTER (Posted 8 March)
The Spring FOGG Newsletter is now available. Check out a copy by clicking into "More" and "Newsletter" above and then download your copy

FOGG ANNOUNCE 2017 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE GARDENS (February 2017)
We are delighted to announce packed Programme of Events in Greenhill Gardens for the Summer 2017. Check out the EVENTS PAGE for full details.

VOTE FOR TESCO FUNDING FOR GREENHILL GARDENS ARCH (January 2017)
Many local Dorset Tesco stores have a special area where voting in token form for local projects can take place. Anybody who uses the stores can use their token to vote for local projects. FOGG's proposed Greenhill Gardens Arch is one of the projects! -- So don't forget to use your Vote!

A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS SINGING TIME
Our Annual Christmas Sing Time was held in the Gardens on 4 December 2016 when arounf 70 people came along. A very cold windy afternoon was offset as we gathered in and around the Bennet Shelter. Music was supplied by Lesley Potts and her family and we sang to some delightful Carols. This was intersperced with us all learning a new song "A Christmas Tree, A Christmas Tree, A Turkey Dinner and A Christmas Tree!" -- with actions. Mulled wine and some eats were also provided by FOGG.

A FANTASTIC QUIZ NIGHT!!
We hosted a great Quiz Night at The Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Weymouth on 11 November 2016. Easy Questions, Hilarious Fun and a Light Supper were enjoyed by all. We had participants from Bromley in Kent and Lee on Solent.

FOGG AGM
The FOGG AGM is being held on Friday 7 October 2016 at 7pm in The Function Room, Brewers Fayre Lodmoor, Preston Beach Road Weymouth. Members and anyone interested in the work of FOGG and Greenhill Gardens are welcome to come along.

SEPTEMBER 2016 -- End of Summer Entertainment on the Bandstand
The fantastic Weymouth Ukuleleans ended a Summer of amazing entertainment in Greenhill Gardens for 2016. A huge number of groups and singers are being planned for 2017. Watch out for details in the New Year in our Events Page -- Thank You to all those who supported our 2016 Summer Programme.

AUGUST 2016 -- FOGG SUMMER FAYRE
A great warm afternoon greeted the FOGG Summer Fayre with a visitor to Weymouth wining the Lamborghini model car and Rod from Rodwell in Weymouth winning the chirping birds.
DARRON GARNETT entertained us on stage with his great voice and arrangements. At 3pm the girls from TWIRL ACADEMY  performed their baton swinging routine in the Gardens.
COASTWATCH and WELDMAR HOSPICE were also present in the Gardens.
The FOGG Committee manned the Tombola and Cake stalls.

AUGUST 2016 -- FOGG paint Bus Shelter
Two Committee members of FOGG painted the bus shelter on Greenhill. Dorset County Council erected a bus shelter near the tennis courts, but it was wasn't a new one and needed some refreshing. The Council were asked if FOGG could paint it and we were given the go-ahead. It looks much better now!

JULY 2016 -- AGM Cancellation
The AGM originally scheduled for 1 August has had to be cancelled. We are sorry for any inconvenience. We will give details of the revised date here as soon as it has been confirmed.

JULY 2016 -- Helicopter in Gardens
A helicopter from the Air Ambulance Service landed on the Greenhill Garden's Putting Green. They were attending an incident nearby.

JULY 2016 -- Funky Fish swim back!
The Funky Fish which were attached to the tennis court railings a couple of years ago have reappeared in the Gardens. They were originally painted by pupils from a number of local schools and now look fantastic swimming in a shoal across the tennis court netting.

JULY 2016 -- FOGG appears in 'Just About Dorset'
The July Edition of 'Just About Dorset' magazine which is circulated throughout the County features Greenhill Gardens and the work of FOGG. Copies are available throughout the area including Sainsburys in Weymouth

JUNE 2016 -- AGM Announcement
Our AGM will be held at the Seascape Cafe in Greenhill Gardens Weymouth.
Monday 1 August 2016 at 4pm
All Welcome

MAY 2016 -- Cancelled Musical Event is re-booked!
Popular Group Replay's performance in May was canceled because of weather concerns. However the good news is that they are to do an extra performance on Bank Holiday Monday 29 August at 2pm. An Event NOT to be missed!!

MAY 2016 -- Quiz Night Success!!
Over Eighty people enjoyed a fantastic FUN Quiz Night at The Brewers Fayre Pub in Weymouth. -- Questions, Laughter and a good deal of Singing were all enjoyed.

MAY 2016 -- FOGG Quiz is another Sell Out!!
Our May Quiz at the Lodmoor Pub sold out days before the Event. Thanks to all who have bought tickets

APRIL 2016 -- Weymouth Choral Society appear on the Greenhill Gardens Bandstand
The ever popular Weymouth Choral Society will be performing a fantastic selection of songs on the Greenhill Bandstand for the first time.
Their FREE Concert starts at 2.30pm on Saturday 14 May -- Not to be missed

JANUARY 2016 -- Council apply for Planning Permission to alter the 2 tier Chalets
Weymouth & Portland Borough Council have applied to themselves for permission to alter the first floor of the two tier Chalet block in the Gardens to provide 10 Chalets and change of use of the cafe to provide another 6 chalets.
The Application can bee seen on the Council website

JANUARY 2016 -- FOGG announce a Musical Line Up for the Bandstand this Summer
FOGG Chair Trevor Collins has booked a number of Groups who will be providing free musical entertainment on the Bandstand this Summer. In addition Weldmar Hospice will be co-ordinating their own events. Check out the EVENTS Page for full details

DECEMBER 2015 -- Interim Newsletter Sent Out
Committee Member Barbara Dubben prepared an Interim Newsletter about the activities of FOGG for the past few weeks. Fill in the Contact Form to request a copy

OCTOBER 2015 -- FOGG Quiz is a Sell Out!!
Our November Quiz Sold Out 2 weeks before it happens. Thanks to all who have booked tickets. Singer Darron Garnett will be with us with some great musical questions!

AUGUST 2015 -- Vote for the Gardens!
The organisers of the Green Flag Award, which the Gardens have won since 2006, have announced a Vote for your favourite Garden competition!
If you'd like to take part and vote for Greenhill Gardens then go to their website www.greenflagaward.org, select the South West region and find Greenhill Gardens and click on the "Vote for this site" button

JULY 2015 -- Gardens win Green Flag!!
Greenhill Gardens have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award every year since 2006.
Well done to the Council Gardeners and Parks Dept

JUNE 2015 -- FOGG Committee Members meet new Head of Assets and Infrastructure at Weymouth Council
FOGG Committee members and representatives from the Chalet owners Group meet David Brown this month. David is the new Head of Assets and Infrastructure at the Council and is therefore tasked to cover the Greenhill Gardens chalets and areas. He prepared a Report for the Council's Management Committee in June for a reconsideration of the future of the Greenhill Chalets and in particular the two tier chalet block. A further site meeting has been arranged.

JUNE 2015 -- Donation by Weymouth Rotary
FOGG Committee member Barbara Dubben was presented with a cheque for £300 from Weymouth Rotary. A fantastic contribution towards FOGG's funds.

MAY 2015 - Musical Summer starts with a HIT!!
Over 300 people enjoyed sitting in Greenhill Gardens enjoying the sun and listening to the superb sounds of local Band REPLAY! -- It was the start of a whole Summer's musical events in the Gardens organised by FOGG or Weldmar Hospice.(Check out the Events Page for details of what is happening on the Bandstand throughout the year)

MAY 2015 -- Quiz Night is a resounding success!
Our latest Quiz Night held at the Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Pub proved to be another great success. Over 80 took part and enjoyed the Fish & Chips Supper and night of fun. Thank you to all who came.

APRIL 2015 -- Bandstand gets erected
The roof and sides of the Bandstand in Greenhill Gardens were dismantled before last Winter. Graham Dubben and his Team have now carried out renovation work on the metal structures and have re erected the Bandstand. It is now ready for the huge number of events planned for this Summer.
If you would like to use the Bandstand for one of your events then please contact Trevor Collins on 830448.

APRIL 2015 -- FOGG Website is Soooo Popular!
Our Website is getting more and more popular. Everyday we have folk clicking in to check it out.
On the day before the AGM, 147 people were checking out our site. Thanks sooooo much for your interest!

APRIL 2015 -- Quiz is a Sell-Out!
Tickets for our May 2015 Quiz have now all gone! Thanks to all those who are supporting this event.

APRIL 2015 -- FOGG AGM and Talk
We held our AGM at the Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Pub on 24 April. Chair Trevor Collins gave a run down on the year and introduced the projects we hope to complete in the next 12 months. These included bulb planting, possible hand rails and a Welcome Arch.The Accounts for the year showed a balance of £3775.15.
Local Author and Speaker Stuart Morris gave a talk on "The History of Wemouth" to finish the evening.

MARCH 2015 -- FOGG Spring Newsletter Released
Our latest Newsletter giving details about the Events in the Gardens and a host of other information is available.
Download one now by going to "MORE" above and clicking "Newsletter" then click on the pdf there.
or ring Trevor on 830448

MARCH 2015-- Quiz Tickets now for sale!!
We have a fantastic reputation for our really FUN Quiz Nights! They always sell out and the Tickets for the next one have been released!
7.30pm Saturday 9 May 2015 at the Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Pub, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth
£9 including Fish & Chips Supper
EasyQuestions,Great Entertainment and Scrummy Food
Reserve your Tickets by contacting Barbara on 782419 or Trevor on 830448

MARCH 2015 -- Local Author gives Talk
Local Author Stuart Morris will be giving a talk on "The History of Weymouth" at The Function Room, Brewers Fayre Lodmoor Pub, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth.
Stuart is the author of a number of books on Weymouth and Portland and his talks are always fascinating.
Friday 24 April at 7pm -- Free Admission
FOGG AGM will also be held. Food Available

FEBRUARY 2015 -- FOGG joins StreetLife
We have registered our Group with Streetlife. They are an Internet based Company with a local appeal. Details of all FOGG events will be mentioned each month and local folk dip in and check out what's going on. -- Some of them even start a dialogue!!

DECEMBER 2014 -- FOGG Chair negotiates for a Summer of Entertainment in the Gardens
Trevor Collins, the Chair of FOGG has been booking a variety of events as the year comes to an end. He has now agreed a fantastic assortment of great acts who will appear on the Bandstand in Greenhill Gardens. The entertainment starts in May and continues right through the Summer until the end of September. Check out "Events" above for more details. A full list of them will also appear in the Spring 2015 Newsletter.

DECEMBER 2014 -- Council makes a decision on the Gardens
The Council have decided to retain full ownership of the Greenhill Gardens area after their calls for a Group or business to take over part of the area. Only one bid was received and now the Council will consider how further to proceed.

DECEMBER 2014 -- Carols round the Bandstand
Local group Brass Tacks played on the Bandstand as well over 100 folk sang Carols. FOGG Committee Members handed out the Mulled Wine and Mince Pies.

DECEMBER 2014 -- Management Committee Meeting delayed
The Council's Management Committee who were due to meet in December to discuss the Bid to manage the Gardens has been delayed. The revised date is early January 2015.

NOVEMBER 2014 -- FOGG holds Sell Out Quiz Night!
Our final Quiz of the year was another Sell-Out and held in the Brewers Fayre Pub, Preston Beach Road.
The Winners took away a huge Festive Hamper.

NOVEMBER 2014 -- Memories of the Greenhill Chalets
Personal memories and recollections of the Greenhill Chalets are being collected with a view to them being complied into a permanent piece of social history. If you'd like to know more about the Project and/or take part then please get in touch with Dr John Neugebauer -- Just email him greenhillhistory@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER 2014 -- Over a thousand runners go past the Gardens
Over a thousand Athletes taking part in the "Weymouth Challenge" streamed past Greenhill Gardens this month. They were taking part in a major triathlon event that provided £50,000 in total prize money. The winner took just over 7 hours to complete the course with others taking much longer. They all ran past the Gardens a number of times and into Weymouth.

SEPTEMBER 2014 -- Radio Solent and South Today
FOGG Chair Trevor Collins has been interviewed by Radio Solent and South Today Television. He was able to discuss the current position concerning the tendering process for Greenhill Gardens. (Click into 'MORE' above and 'Council's Sell Off Plans' for more information of the proposals. And 'MORE' and 'Options for the Future' for FOGG's view on the future of the Gardens.)

AUGUST 2014 -- Tendering process now open
The Council have opened the tendering process for community groups and businesses to take over and run the Gardens. (see more details in The Echo 29 August 2014) Click into 'MORE' above and 'Options for the Future -- August 2014' to get FOGG's views.

AUGUST 2014 -- FOGG submit Discussion Paper to Council
In response to the Council's proposals for development in Greenhill Gardens, FOGG have prepared a Discussion Paper "Greenhill Gardens -- Options for the Future." This document has been delivered to the Council. A copy can be viewed by clicking into 'MORE' above and then 'Options for the Future -- August 2014.'

AUGUST 2014 -- Mayor enjoys afternoon in the Gardens
Weymouth & Portland Mayor Kate Wheller came along to the Gardens with her grandson. She was entertained by Rita Barrington singing on the Bandstand with songs made famous by Marie Lloyd.

AUGUST 2014 -- 7 foot Banana is Won!!
FOGG's 7 Foot cuddly Banana has been won by Chantelle Hyland. Her mother lives in Weymouth and she is a Student Nurse currently training at Southampton Hospital. She had to name the Banana and she chose the name "Bertie Banana" --- She also wins some Health Lottery Tickets -- Congratulations to her and Thank You to all those who took part in the "Name the Banana Competition."

AUGUST 2014 -- Weather affects FOGG's Summer Fayre
Our planned Summer Fayre was affected by the awful weather this year. Although the rain eased off for the afternoon the wind was very blustery and made the use of the Bandstand unviable. Our Cake Stall sold out and we had the draw for the 7ft Banana!

AUGUST 2014 -- Greenhill Gardens wins Green Flag AGAIN!!
Congratulations go to the Council's Parks Department and the Greenhill Gardners for their success yet again in winning the prestigious Green Flag Award from the Keep Britain Tidy Environmental Charity. Councillor Ian Bruce also had some kind words about FOGG too....he said "I'd like to thank...the Friends of Greenhill Gardens for all their hard work."

JULY 2014 -- Hundreds of people enjoy music in the Gardens
On 20 July hundreds of locals and visitors enjoyed free musical entertainment in the Gardens. Local band REPLAY provided the music and the afternoon was enjoyed by all

JULY 2014 -- FOGG Chair Trevor Collins books entertainment on the Greenhill Gardens Bandstand
A great Summer's entertainment is in prospect on FOGG's new Bandstand in the Gardens. It was opened last year and throughout the Summer most Sunday afternoons will feature FREE LIVE MUSIC!

JULY 2014 -- FOGG Committee Member gives talk
Committee Member Iain Campbell gave a talk to the Park Street Over 50's Group this month about the history of the Gardens and the role of FOGG.

JUNE 2014 -- Council proposals for Gardens goes back to Management Committee
At a Full Meeting of the Council it was resolved that further discussion would take place at the Council's Management Committee on 1 July 2014
A couple of Groups and businesses have expressed interest in taking over a Lease of the area.

June 2014 -- FOGG ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Our Annual General Meeting was held in the Gardens when we heard Reports by Chair Barbara Dubben, Treasurer Tim Spooner and Committee Member Graham Dubben about the Bandstand. Member Malcolm Lacey gave us the up to date position about the Group "Community of Greenhill."
Barbara Dubben stepped down as Chair and Trevor Collins was appointed our new Chair.
The finances look good for the year even after a spend of over £5,000 on the new Bandstand.

MAY 2014 -- FOGG on Radio Solent
Committee Member Iain Campbell was interviewed by Radio Solent about the Consultation process being pursued by the Council concerning the proposed developments

MARCH 2014 --FOGG on Wessex FM
Local Radio Wessex FM interviewed Chair Barbara Dubben about the Council's Consultation Process in connection with the proposed Gardens Sell-Off plans. This was followed by an on-air talk with FOGG Committee Member Iain Campbell (Click "MORE" above and "Council's Sell Off Plans" for more details)

MARCH 2014 -- FOGG on Radio Solent about Council's Consultation Process for the Greenhill Sell-Off proposals
FOGG Member Iain Campbell was interviewed on Radio Solent's Steve Harris Morning Programme about the Consultaion process that the Council are following. Click into "MORE" above and "Council's Sell Off Plans" for a full Report.

FEBRUARY 2014 -- Greenhill Residents Association is formed
The Council's plans to sell off part of the Gardens has concerned the residents of Greenhill so much that they have formed an Association to monitor what is going on. Many of the area's residents are on the Greenhill road itself and benefit from the Greenhill Gardens covenants that the Council agreed to 100 years ago when they accepted the land. They will no doubt want a say if the Council plans involve development in the area.

FEBRUARY 2014 -- New Organisation starts to look at Council's Sell Off Plans
A new Committee of the people of Weymouth is being formed to monitor the Council's plans to sell off part of the Greenhill Gardens and evaluate other options. (Click into "MORE -- Council's Sell Off Plans" above)

JANUARY 2014 -- Chalet Owners succeed in application for listing
Under the provision of the Localism Act 2011 the Chalet Owners have successfully managed to get Greenhill Gardens and the Greenhill Play Gardens listed as an asset of "Community Value." -- This means that any future sale proposal would trigger a delay mechanism of 6 months for them to consider other possible options.(For more information click into "MORE -- Council's Sell Off Plans" above)

JANUARY 2014 -- FOGG on Radio Solent
Committee Member Iain Campbell was interviewed by Radio Solent about the Council's latest plans to sell off part of Greenhill Gardens.

JANUARY 2014 -- Public Meeting discusses Council's Plans to sell off part of the Gardens
Public concern has been expressed at a meeing concerning the Council's plans to sell off part of the Gardens. -- For further details see our page "Council's Sell-Off Plans"

AUGUST 2013 -- FOGG Key Rings
We now have our own Key Rings featuring Greenhill Gardens. Over 100 have been sold so far...We think that they'd make a great Stocking Filler for Christmas...Contact Graham Dubben on 782419 for yours.

AUGUST 2013-- FOGG on Radio Solent
FOGG Committee Member Iain Campbell will be talking on Radio Solent at 10.15am Saturday 10 August about the new Bandstand, The Summer Fayre and the history of the Gardens.

AUGUST 2013 -- Amazing Silent Auction at Summer Fayre
At The Summer Fayre on 11 August FOGG will be having a Silent Auction of some interesting original newspapers:
1. Mail on Sunday dated 7 September 1997 announcing the death of Princess Diana
2. The Times, The Daily Mail and The Guardain dated 21 July 1969 announcing the first landing on the Moon

AUGUST 2013 -- Boys Brigade on Bandstand
The Northamptonshire Boys Brigade Band who have been camping in Weymouth played on the Bandstand this Summer.

AUGUST 2013 -- Green Flag
We're delighted to report that the Council Gardeners have won the prestigious Green Flag Award for the Gardens again this year.
The Award will be presented at FOGG's Summer Fayre on 11 August 2013 in the Gardens

JULY 2013 -- REPLAY and the Bandstand
Local Group REPLAY performed to an outstanding number of on-lookers in July. A great hot afternoon was enjoyed by all and FOGG had a record-breaking collection and Tombola.

JULY 2013 -- THE BANDSTAND
Building work spearheaded by FOGG Committee Member Graham Dubben has started on the latest exciting project in the Gardens.

A fantastic Bandstand is being erected to provide a focal point for activities in the Gardens. It will enable musical Groups to have a proper base to entertain onlookers.
We are hoping to complete the Bandstand in time for the Summer's fantastic afternoon in July with REPLAY.

Check out the Events page for more details.

MAY 2013 -- WEYMOUTH BEACH GAINS NATIONAL AWARD
Weymouth has been granted the "Seaside Award" by the Keep Britain Tidy organisation. The Award recognises the Country's shores which have the highest standards of beach management, facilities, cleanliness and water quality. Greenhill Gardens is sited just off the Esplanade fronting the beach. Well Done Weymouth Council.

MAY 2013 -- CHILDREN'S FANCY DRESS PARTY

It was sunshine all the way for the Children's Fancy Dress Party in The Gardens on Sunday 26 May.

JUNE 2013 -- GREEN FLAG INSPECTION
The Gardens have been granted Green Flag status for some years. In June the Gardens will be checked to see if they still comply with the strict criteria....Fingers crossed that the Gardens will be flying the Green Flag again in 2013!! -- The Gardens are looking good, so Well Done to the Council Team.

MAY 2013 -- BREAKING NEWS!!!! ---- FOGG are planning to erect a Bandstand in the Gardens to provide a focus point for entertainment groups. Council approval has been obtained and FOGG has funds available. It is hoped that the structure will be completed thisSummer. In addition an Arch welcoming people in to the Gardens will be sited at the eastern main entrance. To get more details of these developments just fill in the Form on the Contact Page

May 2013 -- AGM
Our AGM was held at the Lodmoor Pub, Weymouth. After a Report from the Chair Barbara Dubben, we heard from Trevor Collins with details of the finances. The Bank Account currently held £4200, of which £2349.02 had been provided by our Quiz Nights. Graham Dubben explained the proposals for a Bandstand and Arch in the Gardens. A series of Events for 2013 were planned for the Gardens.(See Events Page for more details)

April 2013 -- A Great Quiz Night
FOGG organised another FUN Quiz Night at The Lodmoor Pub. Great Quiz! Great Fun! Great Food!

Spring 2013 -- Those Fish are coming back!!
The wooden fish which were attached to the tennis court railings will be making a come back this year. Made and designed by local school children, they add a wave of colour as the fishy school swims along the fencing.

February 2013 - Crocus Colour
The 10,000 crocus bulbs planted by the Lions Club and FOGG Members have appeared again in the Gardens...They make a great purple spectacle.

January 2013 -- Quiz Night
Another great Fun Quiz Night was held in The Lodmoor Pub. Check out the Events Page for details of the next one

December 2012 -- FOGG's Carols
FOGG's Carol Service in the Gardens proves to be another success. A chilly but dry afternoon saw adults and children gather together for Christmas Carols. All enjoyed the warming mulled wine and mince pies......delicious!

September 2012 -- FOGG LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE
We Officially launched this website with a photo-call in the Gardens. Councillors Ian Bruce and Joy Stanley came along together with the Gardners who look after the area. Most of the FOGG Committee were also there to see one of the Gardners cut the celebratory ribbon!

September 2012 -- OLYMPIC 'MOVING TIDES' PROCESSION MARCHES PAST THE GARDENS -- Hundreds of Children dressed in sea-themed costumes walked along the Esplanade as part of the Cultural Olymiad Ceremony

August 2012 – DONATION OF TABLES FROM SCOTS IN BOURNEMOUTH -- The Bournemouth Caledonian Society has kindly donated 8 very sturdy trestle tables to FOGG. The gift is very much appreciated.

FOGG Chair Barbara Dubben said “We have a number of events in the Gardens and our current tables are really not strong enough. We so much appreciate the Bournemouth Caledonian Society’s gift and can assure them that the tables will be put to very good use.”

The Arch --The Royal Wave!
A sketch of the proposed Arch to be erected in Greenhill Gardens in 2018

The Bennetts from Wales
In the Gardens in May 2017 were a group visiting from Wales. They were particularly interested in the Bennett Shelter which has a family connection. In the picture, left to right, are Sue Jordan (nee Bennett); Anne Gabriel (nee Bennett); Richard Bennett; Gill Musto (nee Bennett); Anthony Musto and Len Jordan with Daisy. (see more left about the Bennett visit.

Some of the Performers appearing on the Bandstand in 2020
Group - The Originals
Performer Tony Lowe
Entertainer Darron Garnett
Singers The Decadettes
Weymouth Ukuleleans
Group- Grand Re-Union
Singers Sophie Green and Franz Atkinson
Group Farrago
Wyke Ukadelics
The Omega Project
Group - Dorset Wrecks
Singers Mystery Train
Singers Just Me and Swerve
Singer Damaris Fowler
The baton swinging performers from Twirl Academy

Visit by Green Flag Inspectors in May 2017
(From left ) Tara Williams Interim Open Spaces Manager Weymouth & Portland Council, Barbara Dubben Chair FOGG, Patti Bolt Head of Gardens Portland, Giles Nicholson Inspector, Lucy Giles-Townsend Inspector, Jason Drew Head Gardner Weymouth, Pat Scarlett FOGG, Graham Dubben FOGG and Joy Stanley FOGG

New posters advertising the Gardens go up in May 2017

Flamingos appear in the Gardens for the first time -- May 2017

In May 2017 The Fisher Family from Southampton enjoy ice creams in the Gardens -- Good to see you all.... Please come back and have some more ice creams!!

FOGG Committee Members with Pru Bollam from the Civic Society and the Mayor & Mayor Mayoress of Weymouth & Portland. All celebrating the start of Civic Week in June 2017

In June 2017 the Council refurbished and improved the noticeboard sited at one of the entrances to the Gardens. Looks great!

July 2012 – THE GREEN FLAG FLIES AGAIN -- The Gardens have been awarded the Green Flag of Excellence again! This is a National Standard of Excellence for Parks and Green Spaces. Well done to the Gardeners and all involved in keeping the Gardens looking FAB!

July 2012 –THE OLYMPIC TORCH IS CARRIED PAST THE GARDENS – The journey to London of the famous Olympic Torch took it right past Greenhill Gardens. Crowds watched and cheered the holder as he made his way to The Lodmoor. It then travelled on that day to Bournemouth.
Photo shows the Olympic Torch Bearer running past the tennis courts and putting green at Greenhill Gardens

click to enlarge

July 2012 -- FISHY GOINGS – ON!--FOGG Members helped to erect 150 wooden fish on the Tennis Court fences in August 2011. They were taken away last winter but have now re-appeared thanks to the Gardeners. They were all painted by children from local schools. – Now we have a shoal of fish swimming in the Gardens. Who’d have believed it!!?

July 2012 – MUSIC COURTESY OF WELDMAR -- FOGG Committee members manned a Tombola Stall in the Gardens in August. The entertainment was provide by local band REPLAY, The Lions Junior Brass Band from Cheshire, The Quangle Wangle Choir from Dorchester and Weymouth’s Juno Belly Dancers

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