Yes, it has happened again! Daffodils are already in bloom in Sardis in mid November.
Golden autumn leaves had covered the young buds and the daffodil watchers had thought that they were late this year, so it was a surprise to see some daffodils in bloom on Monday in the wind and rain. There they were surrounded by autumn leaves, flood water and mud, and near the carved seat.
This year has been another wet one for all gardeners and the group of volunteers who maintain the grass verges and woodland in Sardis have been popping out to do a bit of work in the village between the rainstorms.
This year there were good displays of begonias and busy lizzies thriving in the wind and rain, and the volunteers who water the floral boxes had very little work this summer.
For autumn and winter colour, pansies and cyclamens have been planted and some from last year have actually seeded and are growing in odd corners under trees and on the roadside verges. The grass has never been greener and the volunteers who mow have spent many hours cutting the fast lush growth this year.
A big problem has been the deep ruts in the grass verges where vehicles have mounted them, either to park or to pass other road users. As you can imagine, these badly cut-up verges have caused problems for people who walk through the village and the mud churned up has blocked the drains.
The volunteer mowers also have to be inventive in the way they can cut the grass verges and they constantly need to repair the ruts.
This winter, bird boxes are to be renewed and a dry day is awaited to paint seats and flower boxes.
During 2008, Sardis Parks and Gardens have been sponsored by Action Earth and Morrisons supermarket. Environment Wales have also donated money and given advice.
It is thanks to all the organisations and kindness of people and hard work of volunteers that the village scheme continues to thrive.
If you are one of the many people who visit Sardis, look out for and enjoy these special early daffodils.