Visitors to the 110th Hurst Horticultural Show last weekend enjoyed a quintessentially British country show.
Frank Whittaker, show secretary, told Wokingham Today: “The enthusiasm and turnout for the event never ceases to amaze and delight me.
“We seem to have hit upon a recipe for success.”
He said one visitor likened the atmosphere and setting to Darling Buds Of May.
Frank added: “I think that comment about sums it up. I would throw in a sprinkling of The Archers, but without the bickering, and here we have the Hurst Horticultural Show, a traditional English village summer`s afternoon.”
At least half of entries to the show come in the cooking, baking, preserves, handicrafts, art, photography and scarecrows classes.
Entrants also came from further, with many from Wokingham, Bracknell, Twyford,
Maidenhead and Swallowfield.
“We encourage this, it’s not just about Hurst,” he added.
The highly contested men-only apple flan baking competition was won by Brian Poulton who wore his golden crown and apple medallion with pride.
The Sommelier Cup for ladies only liqueur was won by Fiona Piper.
Both Brian and Fiona are keeping their recipes secret.
Children’s classes were popular, and delighted children and their parents, proudly displayed their medals and trophies.
The number of entries was similar to last year, and visitor numbers were up again.
Visitors enjoyed a live jazz band, prosecco, local real ale, home-made cream teas and cakes, hot food, craft stalls and the popular Hurst alpacas.
Frank added: “We keep the show non-commercial and friendly.
“We’re grateful to the local pubs, restaurants and businesses which supported our raffle.
“It’s too early to know, but a surplus sum looks likely from the show this year, and most of that will go to local charities.”
