By Mal Butler
The Haylands Horticultural Show took centre stage at Ryde United Reformed Church last Saturday, where 295 exhibits from 37 exhibitors in 89 classes were on display over six sections.
Show secretary, Martin Stock, said: “It was great to see the bright array of entries once again; the flowers and particularly the large number and variety of dahlias were simply awesome!”
The late summer rains during August helped to revive the flowers and vegetables for a number of the avid growers that regularly take part in the show, after the hot dry spell in June and July.
When it came to prizes, it was a tussle between regular stalwarts, Andrew Nightingale and Ian Stock, plus newcomer, James Kingswell, as to who would come out on top in the trophy count. Andrew edged it in the end, taking the best-in-show trophy for his two vases of dahlias.
James and Ian came up trumps in the vegetables, so much so that they could not be separated for the most points in the section, sharing the Gouge Cup for their efforts. As one of six new exhibitors James also took home the cup for most points among his collection of cups.
Though the fruit numbers were down on previous shows, another regular exhibitor, Tony Carlin, managed to win both the trophies available, sharing most points with Gerry Smith.
As well as a wonderful display of cakes and handicrafts, there was also the addition of a Lego ferry, a replica of the ‘Our Lady Patricia’ catamaran in the 1986 Sealink British ferries livery.
The judges praised the show committee for their efforts in bringing local horticulturalists together for a wonderful show. Next year’s show will be the 50th to be held at the church.
Isle of Wight Observer