Wimborne Horticultural Society held its first Spring Flower Show for three years and despite entries being down a third on the 2019 event, the quality was top-notch.
A good number of people came through the Allendale Centre’s doors and enjoyed the displays of daffodils, tulips and other cut flowers and potted plants, alongside the cookery, photographic and craft sections. There was also a fascinating stand put up by Wilding Wimborne, who are campaigning for more trees in the town.
The trophies were handed out by Martin Stewart, MD of Stewart’s Garden Centres and president of the society. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the continuation of the society, the silverware remained and special rosettes were presented.
The awards were as follows: WHS Spring Challenge Cup for most points in the members section, Mr Bill Howarth, who also won the Spring Floral Cup and the Heatherwood Cup for Most Points in Daffodil Open classes and Most Points in Section C. Best exhibit in Members classes was awarded to Paul Beard for his eye-catching vase of Daffodil ‘Merlin’ and Tony Beard walked away with the Committee Cup for his Daffodil entry in that class. Ray Hayward was a popular winner taking home the spoils in the prestigious Championship class and hot on his heels was Mark Reed who took Most Outstanding Vase of Daffodils as well as Best Bloom in Show.
In other sections, Ruth Howarth was thrilled to take home the award for the most points for a lady exhibitor; Mrs J Simpson was best in the Handicraft section; Miss K Webb entered the winning photograph; and baking was shared by Mrs B Hallett and Miss S Fulgard-Jones.
The show was a success but tinged with a little melancholy as membership has fallen dramatically. The future of the society hangs in the balance, which after more than 70 years of existence is a great shame. The fate of the society will be decided at the next meeting at 8pm on Monday, May 9, at the Allendale Centre.