THE official opening of Teignmouth Orangery for 2007 was tinged with sadness at the loss of plants man John Felthouse, who died earlier this year. Mr Felthouse worked tirelessly at the orangery and did much to maintain the building and its tender tropical plants. His wife, Friends of Teignmouth Orangery president Joan Felthouse, has stood down to the deep regret of committee members. It has been a year of mixed fortune for the committee. Costs of heating have risen greatly and have put funds into a loss this year. Membership is due to rise from £3 to £5 from January to cover costs. Broken roof windows have been a burden but better news is on the horizon with a heritage lottery application for much-needed renovation to the 1842 listed building. Teignbridge Council has made a bid but it is expected to be some time before the result is known. The 2006 committee was re-elected en bloc at the group's annual meeting, except that Margaret Behenna has retired as secretary. The orangery is open to the public free of charge on Thursdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and bank holidays from 2pm-4pm until Sunday September 30.
