Kate Rayner, a homeowner at Castle View retirement Living has won two rosettes for quilting at The Royal Windsor Flower Show. Her traditionally pieced patchwork quilt and a crazy patchwork wall hanging both secured top prizes in the craft category.
“I have been quilting as a hobby for many years before then taking up teaching and specialising in textiles,” said Kate. “It’s so relaxing, easy to ‘pick up and put down’, and especially rewarding to have my work recognised by The Royal Windsor Flower Show judges.”
As well as meeting Alan Titchmarsh, Honorary President of The Royal Windsor Rose & Horticultural Society organisers of the Flower Show, Kate also met Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. “Sarah spotted my rosettes and stopped to talk to me; she was so lovely and interested in my success ”
Kate, who used to live in Datchet, moved to Castle View two and a half years ago. “I decided that after being widowed for many years the time had come to downsize and future proof my life. I wanted to continue to be active within the immediate community and also enjoy what Castle View has to offer. Of course, I viewed other options before deciding to come here but as well as the facilities, the location and friendly community clinched it. It is so well positioned with an easy walk into Windsor town for shopping or going to the theatre, easy access to numerous local groups and societies and we have the choice of two train lines and a great bus service to get into London.”
The Royal Windsor Rose & Horticultural Society was founded by Queen Victoria in 1892 and is one of the oldest continuously running horticultural societies in the world. His Majesty King Charles III is the Society’s seventh royal patron over its long and distinguished history.
Picture shows Kate Rayner with Alan Titchmarsh, Honorary President of The Royal Windsor Rose & Horticultural Society (RWRHS), organisers of the Flower Show.
