Worthing Allotments and Gardens Association's Great Village Show 2018

The sun was shining for The Great Village Show at Oak Grove College on Saturday and the event was well attended. Show secretary Jack Powis said: “For gardeners, this has been the most difficult year with the long, cold spring followed by a two-month drought that decimated many shows and we feared the worst. “But the WAGA members came up trumps again and the hall looked sensational, full of glorious fruit, vegetables, flowers and cookery on display. “Outside, in the gardens, there were stalls selling all manner of things, including allotment produce, plants, tools and crafts. Local beekeepers were there, explaining the wonderful world of bees and selling glorious honey produced on the allotment site, and Men in Sheds displayed their considerable talents. “People sat around enjoying tea and cake, bangers and burgers, and soaking up the sunshine and warm friendly atmosphere. This is such a lovely place to spend an afternoon and the weather was perfect. “It’s been a much more successful show than we could have expected. This event has developed into such a friendly occasion as well as a chance for members to show off the results of a year’s hard work. “The lasting memory of the afternoon was the very friendly atmosphere everywhere, with so many happy people enjoying themselves.” On the competitive side, the standard was high and newcomers picked up awards alongside the experienced showmen. Heather Broad had a good afternoon, winning most points and best exhibit in the flower section, and overall best exhibit in show. Peter Webb had most points and best exhibit in the vegetable section and won the RHS Banksian Medal. Jack Powis won best exhibit in the fruit section and Celia Powis won the Cookery Cup, Rose Bowl and Floral Art Cup. Peter Mazillius had the best collection of vegetables, Peter Webb won master gardener and the Wine Cup was shared between Mick Russell and Jack Powis. Frank Di Chello won the best allotment award and Rosemary Hill the most improved allotment. In the novice section, Gareth Burgess won most points and Rosemary Hill the best exhibit.