Overton Horticultural Society Autumn Show
The 59th Overton and District Horticultural Society Autumn Show proved to be another successful community event with exhibitors, visitors and supporters gathering at Overton Memorial Hall.
This year's event was generously sponsored by Ratcliffe and Bibby Solicitors, whose support helped ensure the continued success of one of the district's most popular gatherings.
The show attracted a strong range of entries across the horticultural classes, with exhibitors displaying high standards of cultivation, presentation and produce.
Judges commented on the quality of exhibits, which reflected the dedication and expertise of local growers and gardeners.
The handicraft classes proved popular too with outstanding contributions from John Cerron (poem), Angela Ross (needle felt) and Andrew Walsh (resin interpretation of the famous Heysham hogback).
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the prestigious Blue Ribbon, awarded on behalf of the Westmorland and North Lancashire Federation of Horticultural Show Societies for the best horticultural exhibit in the show. The coveted award was won by Martin Ellam of Arkholme for his two parsnips, one of his many outstanding exhibits.
The traditional auction of produce once again proved popular with visitors. Conducted by auctioneer John Hughes, formerly of Armistead Barnett, the sale generated spirited bidding and raised a total of £228, providing a valuable contribution to the Society's funds.
Society officials expressed their gratitude to all exhibitors, judges, volunteers, sponsors and visitors whose continued support helps keep the long-standing village tradition alive.
With another successful show completed, attention now turns to next year's event, the 80th Summer Show.
The committee are keen to use the vehicle of the show to encourage more local people to grow their own especially in this time of higher prices and food insecurity.
The Society are already supporting pupils at Overton St Helen's Primary School to learn more about where food comes from and the chairman of the society, Mr Tim Wingate, commented that it was great to see the school entering horticultural exhibits in the show.