Autumn Show Report

After the terrible weather we had in the run up to the Summer Show, we were all hoping for something drier for the Autumn Show. Alas our hopes were dashed with torrential downpours  in the days prior to the show. This meant many exhibitors who had earmarked perfect roses, dahlias and other blooms for the show, found themselves facing battered and tattered specimens by Friday.  However, yet again the gardeners of Bucklebury managed to find some excellent exhibits. Our judge, John Eckton was extremely impressed and commended our exhibitors for overcoming the elements to produce and exhibit such a wide variety of entries of such a high standard. We had 204 entries, the apple classes were very well represented with 19 entries across 2 classes. It was also a good year for tomatoes and runner beans. The dahlia and chrysanthemum classes were down on the very high numbers of last year but contained some excellent exhibits.

The floral arrangements made a stunning display and our judge, Barbara Hunt felt the standard was very high. Do take care to ensure exhibits are within the maximum size stated in the schedule.  This seems to prove a challenge with the smaller arrangements.

Our homecraft judge, Pam Morden was kept busy with high numbers of fruit cakes to judge. She highlighted the winner of the chutney class and the winner of the mince pies class as both being simply superb. There was a reminder that all jams, chutneys and preserves must be shown in plain jars (including the lid).  Commercial jars with patterns, logos or writing on shouldn't be used.

The photography classes were judged by Alan and Sue from Thatcham Photography Club.  They write very helpful comments and tips on each entry so even if you don't win, you'll know what to do to improve your chances next time!

It was heartening to see an increase in the children's entries and whilst numbers are still low, we hope this trend continues. Thank you to all the parents and grandparents who supported our young entrants.

Visitor numbers in the afternoon were good and everyone enjoyed the refreshments which were on offer.

The Century Club draw will take place at our AGM on Friday 25th October, 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall.  This friendly, informal event is open to everybody so please come along and support the Society.  We welcome new ideas and suggestions, so if there's a class you think we should include or if you have fundraising ideas or would just like to know a little more about what we do, please join us. 

Thank you to everybody who supported the show, I hope you enjoyed the day and now it's time to start planning what to grow for next year!

Kind regards

Jane West

Show Secretary