East Woodhay flower and produce show makes a welcome return after two year absence

The 70th East Woodhay Flower and Produce Show returned last Saturday with a bang after two years away.

There were 46 entrants for the cups, all competing in a friendly rivalry.

Ninety-five-year-old Les Barber continued his success at the show by winning five cups; the highest points in both the vegetables and flower classes, best roses, best vase of flowers, and the Floral Cup – awarded for the most points in the floral art section, which including a class for an arrangement titled ‘Over the Rainbow’.

Other cups were awarded to Les Wallace for most points in the dahlia section, Bill Webb for best begonia, Cathy Neller for best runner beans in show, and Norman Powers for the best carrots in show.

Emily McGraghan won the 13 to 16 years category, Jack McGraghan won the nine to 12 years and Fred Pocock triumphed in the under fives.

The event was opened by Basingstoke and Deane borough councillor Graham Falconer and a celebratory cake was made by Louise Embling of Plain ‘n’ Fancy cakes.

Local artist Helen Mortimer gave a demonstration on how to paint on silk and invited people to ‘have a go’.

A good crowd attended the show and enjoyed looking at the exhibits, perusing the stalls and being entertained by the East Woodhay Silver Band.

Show committee member Kim Boreham said: “The day went really well – everybody seemed to enjoy it.

“The rain seemed to clear up and the day got brighter and it was good to be back.

“We just picked up where we left off. We missing holding it last year so it was good to be back and see people again and see our supporters.

“Helen Mortimer was great. She also had a stall with her scarves and cards so that was really nice because it gave people an opportunity to do something while they were waiting for the cups to be presented and it also meant they could do something as well and try something different.”