We have had a lot of weather this year: drought in May, Deluge in July and August, unseasonal cold, unseasonal heat…you remember, I’m sure. That’s why the marvelous display at this year’s show was such a pleasant surprise. Despite all that the weather could throw at us (and it did!) our determined and resourceful members managed to produce:- perfect blooms, pest free foliage, great big, beautiful vegetables, tempting fruit and elegant floral arrangements. Not to mention the handicrafts, honey and other exhibits. I always love to see the children’s entries: they never fail to surprise and delight. In addition to our usual, excellent judges, an international rose specialist dropped in and enjoyed a look around our exhibits: her friend and fellow judge had urged her to come and see what he described as ‘a fine show’. And indeed, it was.
One of our judges commented on the ‘consistently high quality’ of the Helensburgh and Gareloch Horticultural Society show, and I’m proud to be one of the number who triumphed (a bit) over the weather, slugs, snails, deer and rabbits to grow something of beauty or utility.
There was a very good turnout, both from members and of the public who came to admire the produce, and enjoy the superb home baking and teas.
(Click on a photo to view it)
While many prizes were won, and deservedly so, by established stalwarts of the society, it was pleasant to see ‘new blood’ also winning prizes and cups. We enticed a few more folks to join our happy crew on the day, and I know that they’ll find a great deal of pleasure in the joys of our society – attending the talks, enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts and, possibly, ‘catching the bug’ and putting their own entries in the show in years to come.