GARDENERS brought their prize fruit, veg, and flowers to the Wokingham Horticultural Association’s Summer Show for judging at the weekend.
Jams and chutneys, and home baking items were also exhibited, with plants, local honey, and crafts for sale, along with tea and cakes.
Guests of honour were the new town mayor, Cllr Sally Gurney and her consort Chris Cooke.
Visitors to the event were able to admire more than 140 exhibits, including some from junior contributors.
“We were very pleased with the show,” said Pauline MacBrayn, WHA vice chair.
“It had the usual lovely atmosphere, and allowed our members to show off their talents, some entering a number of categories.”
Children’s entries included Ruby Royall’s scarecrow made from recycled materials, which won the Southfield School Summer Cup, five year old Lyra B’s winning colouring of a seaside picture drawn by local artist Liz Robertson, Evelyn-May, who at three years old, won best exhibit for her miniature garden on a plate, and Amelia Downes’ prize-winning hand-picked flowers.
“We’re always delighted to see young growers taking part,” said Ms MacBrayn.
“One of the best things about gardening is eating what you’ve grown.
“Everything’s so fresh, and tastes better than shop bought fruit and vegetables.”
Adult winners were: Carl Curtis, George Spence, Ellen Colvin, Nina Preston, Jon Lambert, Joan Beutement, Marek Lokuciewski, Pauline MacBrayne, Mary Gillan, Doreen Hogston, Cathay Stratton, and Lorraine Predgen, who was exhibiting after a gap of almost 40 years.
Exhibitors’ produce came from Wokingham gardens, and from public growing spaces including Ormonde Road Allotment.
“We hold a store there where members can come to buy seeds and equipment,” said Ms MacBrayn.
“There’s always someone to help with gardening questions.”
Chairman Lindsey Payne gave a vote of thanks at the end of the event.
And Cllr Gurney presented the awards and drew the raffle, assisted by Amelia Downes and Oliver Lawrence.
Wokingham Horticultural Association offers activities and events throughout the year, access to their trading store, and a community willing to share their enthusiasm and knowledge of gardening.
The group holds shows four times a year at St Paul’s Church, Wokingham.
Their trading store is open on on Wednesdays and Sundays between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
For more information visit: www.w-h-a.org.uk
