INTRODUCTION
by Ursula Salghetti Drioli Piacenza

This year ended in triumph! The visit to the gardens of Ninfa was truly fascinating: the ruins, water and plants formed an enchanting and unforgettable display, not only due to the diversity of the plants but also thanks to the emotional impact we each experienced in our own way confronted by every enticing scene. Ninfa speaks in a unique way to everyone.
The tour of Dr Antonella Pousillo and the input of the curator Dr Lauro Marchetti helped us to enter into the real spirit that this garden exudes, and we thank them so much for the really exceptional welcome they extended to our Association.
I must add that our two-day excursion with its overnight stay was excellent: there were no problems and we will certainly repeat this event every year.
We have many projects for the future, which we very much hope to fulfil. Foremost amongst these is the project for the horticultural school, which we have been working on for some years together with the University of Genova. This year, thanks to the involvement of two of our members, we have found a sponsor – the Bank Caraglio of Cunese and of the Riviera dei Fiori. At this stage we are carrying out a feasibility study.
The Gardens’ future depends upon our success in transmitting the passion and the skills needed to direct the young: gardens need nurturing, as do all living things, but they also require love and understanding. This makes the tutors’ task even more difficult but much more rewarding. The Amici dei Giardini Hanbury, who love these gardens so much, attempt to pass on this message to the young together with the technical skills required for their future.
I should like to remind you that 9th March 2007 is the centenary of the death of Sir Thomas Hanbury. Several projects are proposed for this important anniversary. We would like your suggestions about these when we meet for the General Assembly on May 7th 2006. They are as follows:
1. Invite the local art schools to compete for a project to replace the statues of the 4 seasons, which used to be in the gardens but have since been lost.
2. The replacement of plants from the times of Thomas Hanbury.
3. Organise a convention about Thomas Hanbury and his life in Liguria.
4. Have the book “In the footsteps of Thomas Hanbury” written by Alasdair Moore translated into Italian and published in Italy.
I think the proposed programme seems full of interest and I hope that many of you will take part.
On 12th Feb we will organise a day in the Hanbury Gardens on the pruning of olive trees, to include a visit to the garden of Boccanegra with a picnic.
On 23rd June we will travel to Monte Torreggio to admire the Ligurian wildflowers.
As you already know, May 7th is the day of the General Assembly. We hope that many of you will be able to attend.
Hoping to see you all at these events. I should like to take this opportunity of wishing everyone Tanti Auguri for 2006, and many Christmas greetings