The Horticultural Show was held on 13th September this year. As usual, there was plenty to admire in the exhibits. Once again. it was encouraging to see new names on both the entries and class winners for some of the categories as well as some new faces on the day. I know it is early re next year but please remember that anyone can enter their flowers, fruit, vegetables, floral art, cookery, handicrafts and photographs. You do not have to be an allotment holder. You don’t have to be a Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winner, a David Bailey, or a Michelin star chef.
It was good to see some children’s entries this year after a few years with none – let’s have more of them next year!
It was commented on that the Show had a very happy atmosphere. New acquaintances were made while admiring the potatoes and pumpkins and old ones strengthened, especially over the refreshments. No-one went home hungry after visiting the generous display of cakes and bakes. Some lucky people even managed to take a doggy bag home!
And, as always, the variety of raffle prizes had something for everyone and the draw was conducted with humour and banter to keep everyone involved – thanks to all those involved in drawing the tickets!
Finally, thanks to all who came to support the Show. It is part of the glue that strengthens and holds our community together. Thank you to Holy Redeemer Church for allowing us to use the Church Hall. Thank you to Simon Hooberman for lending his voice to the role of MC for the day. Special thanks to all who helped with organising the Show, staging and taking down of the exhibits, the bakers for the teas, those who manned the door, the raffle ticket sales, and, of course, the refreshments’ servers.
Let’s hope we get many more things to admire next year.
Juliet Mitchell
Chair SVPOA