Thank you to the 11 people who took the time to complete the survey. We really appreciate your insights and all the comments, especially the positive ones. Although statisticians would tell us that the sample size was too small to draw firm conclusions, we will use the results in planning events for 2016.
All of those who responded had attended the shows and bought from the Trading Hut. Three quarters had been to a social event or a talk and nearly half on a visit. It would have been nice to have had more replies, particularly from those who haven’t attended events in the past. When asked what you’d like to see in the future, the most popular answer was informal social events such as the barbecue, followed by quizzes and walks. You are much less keen on formal events.
The key things we’ll take from this are to keep costs of events down (which we already try to do but visits involving a minibus and an entrance fee are always going to be more expensive), keep social events informal and avoid midweek evenings.
Social events
“The BBQ was my favourite – more parties!”
Shows
When asked which day you preferred for the shows, most (73%) didn’t mind.
One person said “Enjoyed the Summer show – would be nice if there was an event after the prize giving as everyone just seemed to disappear and it was not as social as it could have been.”.
Talks
All were interested in gardening talks and most (82%) in other topics of local interest. Unfortunately, no one was interested in organising an event (but it’s never too late to join in!). Specific suggestions were Chiswick House; Hogarth House; Chiswick Pier Trust; Thames Explorer Trust. One person indicated a preference for weekend, daytime talks (as talks are too early in the evening to get to); another commented “interesting and enthusiastic speakers almost more important than the topic. problem is to find them”.
Visits
This was an area of particular concern, as we’d had to cancel 2 planned garden visits this year due to lack of interest. Of those who replied, 70% were interested in garden visits, although distance and price are a consideration. The majority were willing to pay up to £30 (63%) and travel for up to 2 hours each way (87%). Suggestions for future visits included Highgrove, Sissinghurst, Hidcote, Wakehurst Place, Nymans, Kew, Selbourne, Jane Austen’s House & Chartwell. One of the people who said “no” might be prepared to go if the garden is more local. One suggestion was a local Open Allotments event, to meet and learn from new people. Would any of our sites be interested in hosting one?
All those who replied said they were interested in local, non-garden visits. Suggestions included Fullers Brewery, Thames Explorer Trust; work of Chiswick Pier Trust; Chiswick House; Hogarth House (followed by a trip to the nearest pub?), musical and steam museums, the Thames Water pumping stations, Livery Companies/Trinity House/Charterhouse.
“Visits are more of a commitment so I need to be sure I will enjoy it and can spare the time.”
Other comments
“We think it’s fantastic that CHAS even exists let alone organising such great social events etc.”
“The events I have attended have been very enjoyable. The talks in particular have been very good.”
“I enjoy the events that it is easy for a single person to attend – outing, quiz nights etc. Dinners etc. are difficult if you are single.”
“You are doing a great job. We help in a very limited way due to work commitments but are grateful for all those who devote so much time to the society”
“What about linking in with another Horticultural Society with the Summer Shows?”
“I could perhaps organise a trip to Ham House garden “ (but no contact details given – please get in touch!)
“1 quiz night p.a.is enough”
“I would encourage you to try and keep the costs of the events down.”