'GOOD LIFE' gardeners Charles and Angela Birch impressed visitors with the results of working with nature when they opened up their organic urban plot to the public for the first time on Saturday. The pensioners, who have been keen advocates of keeping chemicals out of the ground for the last 30 years, showed off their garden at Risdon Road in Watchet as part of a national celebration run by the organic organisation, the Henry Doubleday Research Association. Although the rain largely held off, the couple did have to contend with a rival open gardens weekend in neighbouring Williton. "We probably only had about 20 people and made about £30 for HDRA funds but it was still worth the effort," said Mr Birch. "Those who did come seemed to enjoy the experience and although we were mostly preaching to the converted, there was a lot of interest in how we garden." The couple describe their garden as a small urban plot with just nine beds but one of its highlights is a unique and award-winning water saving and recycling system, particularly relevant as last winter was the second driest on record since 1904. "We are especially keen on saving rainwater for use in the house, flushing the lavatory, as well as watering the vegetables," said Mr Birch. "The economy of use of our special 'tap' raised several eyebrows as our bill for water supply must be the lowest in the county. "But we should all do our best to make the most economical use of this resource." Mr Birch said many visitors also applauded the recycling of garden waste, with some even pledging to step up their efforts in that direction. "I think the spur was the apparent health and vitality of our vegtables." Mr and Mrs Birch, pictured, paid tribute to members of the West Somerset Organic Group who had helped make the open day a success by manning the stalls. Photo: Steve Guscott.