HUSBAND and wife, Andrew and Julie Wilson, won top prizes when local television presenter Sarah-Jane Bungay, presented the trophies and awards to members of the Frome Selwood Horticulture Society at their 49th Annual Show.
The event was held last month at Selwood Academy. From novice to master gardener, and for the first time this year, for watercolour, everyone who entered was recognised for their contribution. Fashions change in the horticulture world, as do the gardeners, and this year saw some different interpretations on a theme.
Jane Norris reports, “NAFAS judge Michael Bowyer awarded top exhibit in floral art to Anna Giles for her stunning single flower in a vase. Jean Fraser took most points in the floral art class, as did Daniel Norris for photography, Jean Lemon for homecraft and Jean Norman in fruit. Sandra Hopkins spread her skills by winning top vase and best photograph. Sue Leather was awarded best painting with her imaginative use of materials.
“Vegetables and flowers were well supported and husband and wife team, Andrew and Julie Wilson, each won top spot for, respectively, top vegetable, for tomatoes, and best flower exhibit with a stunning red decorative dahlia. Andrew was also awarded Master Gardener and the National Vegetable Society Medal.
“Ken and Stella Cook, who have been exhibiting for many years, continued their run, winning the Committee Cup with most points in vegetable classes.
“Congratulations go to everyone, and especially David Turner, who always manages to pull off an array of master gardening. Vice Chairman David won the Society Shield for most points in show and the coveted Ralph Showering Memorial Trophy for Best Exhibit in Show with his potted fuchsia.
“Cups carry names and much meaning. From the Holton and Lintern to the Fred Phillips and many wonderful names in between, the history of the Society is recorded. Another was presented for the first time this year, the “Mike Meaden Memorial Trophy” in memory of the wonderful grower and past Show Secretary who passed away after a short illness last year. Fittingly, Society Chairman Ray Carver was awarded the cup for three pots of flowering begonias, and so starts The Begonia Championship, and another chapter in the FSHS history.
“Thanks were extended to everyone who exhibited; to all who helped before and on the day, either with the planning or with the teas; and to Selwood Academy for allowing us use. Thanks were also extended to Sarah-Jane who is yet to join the society!
“For anyone interested in being a part of this thriving amateur gardening club, please contact Jane Norris on 0777 620 8531 or look on our Facebook page.
“We meet at Critchill School on the second Tuesday in the month at 7.20pm for a talk, raffle and tea and chat. Come along for a warm welcome.”
