A LOVELY summer afternoon with tea and home-made cakes, beautiful flowers, excellent produce, original handicrafts and art was enjoyed by Mickleton Gardening Club members and visitors at the Annual Summer Show. The exhibits were of a very high quality and this was remarked on by the judges with one judge commenting that the Dahlias were the best she had seen this season. The Floral Art exhibits were very attractive and there was a highly original interpretation of the category ‘A Bucket Full of Stuff’ showing some things left by passers-by that were less than desirable in the garden! The handicraft section demonstrated the artistic talents of local people with some lovely Wedding Day cards and pretty decorated boxes and plates. A total of 343 exhibits were presented by 46 exhibitors.

The Club Chairman thanked June Howse, Show Secretary, for her hard work in organising the Show so successfully. This was June’s last time as Show Secretary as she is stepping down this year and she will be a hard act to follow! Also thanked were committee members, exhibitors and visitors who all contributed to making it such an enjoyable afternoon.

The prizes were presented by Thelma Hunt, a much valued club member who has given many years of service to the Gardening Club and in the past held the roles of Show Secretary and Chairman.

Susan Smith won the RHS Banksian Medal given to the exhibitor winning the most points in the flower and vegetable classes. Susan also won the Lady Pollen Cup (for her flowers) and the Playing Field Cup (for the best single exhibit in the flower section). Linda Shrimpton was the winner of The Committee Cup (for preserves and cookery) and the Dr. Snelson Cup (winning the most points in all classes). The Rose Challenge Cup for the best roses was presented to June Howse who also received the Mickleton Challenge Plate for her handicrafts. The George Bell Cup, awarded for the best single exhibit in the vegetable section, went to Christopher Gurney. Pamela Govier was awarded the Edwin and Ethel Memorial Trophy for her Dahlias. The highest points in the floral art section were gained by Brenda Griffiths who was awarded the Joyce and Pamela Wallis Memorial Bowl. Michael Barlow took the Novice Cup, winning most points in all classes and not having previously won a cup. The £5 voucher for best pot plant was given to Susan Ward.

The next club meeting is on 20 September in the King George’s Hall from 7pm. Visitors always welcome.

SANDRA REED