Template:Courier-OCT-25-18

FLOWER SHOW A ROARING SUCCESS IN THE SUNSHINE

Happy visitors once again flocked to the Recreation Ground on a sunny Saturday afternoon in July to make this year's Claygate Flower and Village Show another roaring success. Not put off by soaring temperatures, children and adults came prepared with sun hats and sun cream, refilling their water bottles at the refill station and taking advantage of the plethora of refreshments around the grounds.

The day was filled with things to do and see, with all the usual family favourites: entertainment in the arena, the fairground, Morris Dancers, the dog show, stalls village, classic cars, charity and community groups, tug-of-war and children's sports, to name but a few.

The tug-of-war drew in the crowds with Claygate ladies' netball team claiming victory yet again and the 2023 men's champions returning to win the coveted cup.

It was a good day in the Grand Exhibition Marquee too the number of entries was up overall with an excellent turnout in the Junior section and in the Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables section-growers had clearly braved and embraced the very mixed weather conditions in the months leading up to the show.

There was a spectacular standard of entries across the board. The organisers send huge thanks to the schools who encouraged their children to enter and to all the creative aduits who "had a go" and entered sausage rolls, handicraft, fudge, jam, paintings and photographs. It all made for a wonderful display. And any residents who didn't get a chance to browse the entries in the marquee should make sure they take a look next July.

Organisers are also enormously grateful to all the sponsors who help to make the show a success year after year: Ridgeback Properties, Chessington Equestrian Centre and Elmbridge Tree Services were particularly generous this year. A comprehensive list of sponsors can be found on the website: www.claygateflowershow.co.uk

Next year's Flower Show will be on Saturday July 11 — so save the date. Feedback is welcome, as are volunteers to take the Show into 2026. As well as the opportunity to join a team that plots, plans and organises throughout the year, there are also small "on the day" jobs which might appeal. Anyone who would like to be part of this enthusiastic and friendly team should get in touch via email — info@claygateflowershow.co.uk or visit the Show website.

The preparations for next year's Flower Show are already under way and it's not too early to start planning prize-winning entries. Keep an eye out for the Seed Giveaway in The Parade in March to kick-start the growing season.