Despite the very challenging growing season and excessive heat in kitchens – with Lingwood, part of the “& District” of the Club – breaking national summer temperatures, 18 people managed to produce a wide variety of exhibits for the annual show. Four of these people were new to exhibiting – the youngest being only 8 but he managed to beat an expert grower, winning first prize for courgettes. Just shows you are never too young, or too old, so have a go next year. There are always club members willing to help and advise you.

The judges were very complimentary about what people had produced, despite some roses failing to make it to the show bench having “blown” on the way to the Margaret Harker Hall because of the heat. Comments from the two independent judges included “wonderful, lovely flowers”, “very tasty baking and preserves, no soggy bottoms!”, “many of the decisions were very close”.

The children of the Blofield Forest School made some charming miniature gardens in trays. These made a pretty display on the veranda of the hall where there was also a wonderful plant sale. Some fantastic bargains were to be had. Always room for just one more plant, isn’t there?

Back in the hall there was a tombola and raffle plus the most important tea, coffee, home made cakes and scones. A great opportunity to catch up with friends and to start making new ones. Finally we welcomed a new auctioneer for the end of show sell off. A huge thank you to Peter Mackness for all his years of service in this role and a warm welcome to John Burton who has now taken it on.

Many thanks to all who came along to the show and to all who supported it with donations for the raffle, tombola, plant and cake sale and refreshments, plus a generous financial donation.

A date for your 2027 diary – Saturday, 10th July, 2027 – the next Blofield and District Gardening Club Show.