Flower & Produce Show Report

The Flower Show Committee’s concerns about the adverse effects of this summer’s weather in gardens and on plots were quickly dispelled early on Show Day as a convoy of cars arrived, loaded with flowers, produce and so much more.  All forty classes had attracted entries and soon the tables were full of the hard work of many.

It was clear that our five judges had a difficult task before them.  The quality of displayed fruit and vegetables was as good as in any previous year, but the weather had had its effect on soft fruit, runner beans and root veg.  Conversely, there was an abundance of cherry tomatoes and apples.

As always, the floral displays were a picture and the “Display in a Teapot” class produced some ingenious creations.

There were creations aplenty on the tables carrying cakes, sponges, jams, marmalades and honey, plus a new class for shortbread. Arundel clearly has some talented cooks!

Award-winning Cakes

The judges having finally completed their tasks, it was time to admit the public, including the entrants, eager to see how they had fared. Many made a beeline for the tombola. Her Grace the Duchess of Norfolk, newly appointed President of our Association, was seen casting a keen eye on the displays, accompanied by our Chair, Christine Fowler.

Mayor Caroline Kenney with Bob Tanner

The displayed paintings by children at our two local schools attracted a lot of attention, this year’s theme “A Garden on the Moon” having inspired. Scarlet Day won the Special Painting prize for her creative interpretation.

Then came the prize-giving, eagerly awaited by many.  Anne Harriott, Show Committee Chair, announced the winners and Caroline Kenney, Mayor of Arundel, was on hand to present their rewards:

Emma Rowling won the Eric Nash Vase for Best Single Rose and Emma is Eric’s granddaughter!  It was no surprise to learn that Malcolm Paradine had won the top prize for his outstanding vegetables, for the sixteenth year in succession!  Mary Barber was awarded the Bert Nash Challenge Cup for best fruit grower, but the Best in Show award was deservedly won by Ted Talmedge for his superb bunch of black grapes.

In her closing speech, Anne congratulated the winners, thanked the sponsors and invited everyone to come again in 2027.

Report by Bob Tanner, F&P Show Committee
Photos by Charlie Waring