Gladiolus, Pumpkins and all things bright and beautiful adorned the tables at Selwood Academy when the Frome Selwood Horticulture Society held its 51st Annual Society Show last month.
With the Society thriving with new members and new talent, first time winners took centre stage for the end of Show photo. Trophies were presented by Chair of Governors Christopher Bailey-Green. Not a gardening himself, Chris confessed to feeling a fraud only to then realise anyone can take part, that being the essence of the society.
Of the coveted prizes, Alistair Wood won the Ralph Showering Cup for Best Exhibit, three begonias; Ray Carver, the Society Shield for Most Points in Show whilst in floral art two new names will be engraved: Jill Warren for most points and Rosemary Cain for best exhibit.
After determined effort for several years Jane Norris won the Westover Cup for most points in Homecraft, so joining her late mother’s name on the cup. Good hearted banter ensued as Di Whisstock had actually won best exhibit. Jane Wood gained a cheer for her first ever win with most points in fruit usurping Jean Norman who won instead best exhibit in flower classes with her gladiolus.
Julie Wilson’s dahlias were as ever deservedly first class as were Peter Painters fuchsias. David Fraser’s vegetables won him the National Vegetable Society Medal and best exhibit.
Stalwarts David and Victoria Turner won apiece including for flowers and ultimately the Master Gardener Competition.
Peggy Harris won best exhibit in watercolour whilst Terry Joyce and Hilary Tomas won in photography.
“It proved to be a great sunny day with the public enjoying the fruits with tea and cake served besides,” said the society. “President Pam Secker reflected the mood that she considered all her worries about entry to be ill founded as more members than ever had staged.
“Thanks go to all who entered, to Selwood Academy, the judges and helpers who swept up. Sorry about the raw egg that rolled out of the floral art display. Lesson learned!!”
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