Egmanton Craft and Produce Show attracts entries from far and wide on its return from covid

After a three year, covid-enforced, absence the popular Craft and Produce Show returned to Egmanton Village Hall with an increased entry.

This was boosted by entries sent in by friends and family from all around the country, including Devon and Surrey.

Amidst fears that the hot, dry weather conditions would have affected entries, the organisers prepared for the event with optimism.

This was amply rewarded with entries up by around 50 to almost 300.

Joy Allison, one of the organisers, said: "In the morning the friendly atmosphere and enthusiasm of the competitors arriving laden with entries was in stark contrast with the times of social isolation.

"It was so rewarding to see new faces as well as familiar friends and, later, to read new names on the prize cards.

"It was a real community occasion and a great way for newcomers to feel part of the village."

The judging took place in the middle of the day and the villagers and friends showed up in good numbers to see how they had done or simply to admire and enjoy the exhibits.

Entering the hall, the floral entries provided a riot of colour, beautiful blooms and excellent arrangements.

These were viewed across a much-expanded photography table with a mass of high quality and well printed images to give the judge something to think about.

Possibly the vegetable section showed the difficulties of the season, but as long-term resident Peter Barber said, he is now growing Mediterranean crops like melons and chillies, which would never previously have been possible.

Despite their difficulties, local gardeners had still managed to find some tasty looking entries for the vegetable and fruit classes — and the longest weed was no smaller than usual.

As always the crafters had been busy, and with three years without a show, it was no surprise that they had great entries to show.

Joy said: "Alison Barber’s coat was exceptional and she deservedly won the Best Craft in Show award for it. Someone had been busy making bunting, not to enter, but to decorate the hall, and it certainly added to the cheerful feel of the event.

"The children had done superbly well. There were some innovative entries from the young ones and some exceptionally well made brick models. So good and varied were these that a last minute decision was made to split the class and award prizes for the best ‘freestyle’ build as well as the best kit build. Well done and congratulations to all the young people who entered and special thanks to the young twins who also helped with the set up and clearing away."

As always, the cooks had been busy and there was a good entry of tempting looking cakes and bakes as well as a colourful array of jams and chutneys. The judges had been busy and the tables were enhanced for the public viewing by the colourful prize cards.

"Many thanks to our local councillor, Sylvia Michael, for coming to present the prizes. She took a great interest in all the entries and commented that she really enjoys such community occasions. We are grateful for her interest and her help with our village projects.

The winners of the children’s classes were presented with cash prizes. The Egmanton Cup was presented to Rebecca Lee for the most points gained in the 7-12 age group.

Trophies:

The Hunt Trophy for vegetables — Peter Barber; flowers and floral art: Georgina Batty; The Burnmoor Trophy for fruit: John Bower and Hazel Smith; cookery and preserves: Elizabeth Banks; The Violet Cup for the best display of mixed flowers: Georgina Batty; The Photographic Trophy for the most points in photographic classes: Dik Allison; most outstanding exhibit in arts and crafts: Alison Barber.