Features and Reviews

Summer blooms in Brixham

'Stunning' was the only word to describe the colourful exhibition greeting those entering the Scala Hall on the 1st of August, where a vast array of blooms packed out the Annual Summer Flower Show hosted by the Brixham Horticultural Society.

With more than 470 entries the biggest and brightest show in recent years marked both the increased interest in such community annual shows and interesting weather patterns this year.Member of the Society David Philips said that he like others had been worried by the amount of rain this year. However ‘where some plants in the garden had been damped down by the continuous rainfall he said that , ‘others had benefited from more water,' and many members noted how many plants had come on much earlier than usual creating a different assortment of exhibits this year.

Extra blooms and well rounded specimens of vegetables meant that nearly all the classes in the show for members of the Horticultural Society and non members had entries, with the ever popular Floral Art seeing winners inspired by titles such as ‘Congratulations'. With a first in this category Mavis Morris was pleased that her arrangement had been well received and newcomer new Marilyn Sterling was extremely pleased with her first for her ‘Come into the Garden,' a basket of classic flowers containing the old favourite Snap Dragons or Antirrhinums. She also said, “I only joined last year and have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the group, as there are not many shows like this around now.”

Anna Baxter was surprised as she walked in to see many of her entries the judge's choice for first prize being especially pleased that her displays of succulents had been chosen over many other quality exhibits. Indeed judging the show, national judge Ron Hasley, said that ‘it was an extremely high quality show, one of the best he had seen this year.' With many different trophies going to those taking part, Jack Eveleigh won the cup for the most points in show.

As well as the abundance of flowers and vegetables many had entered other classes presenting art and craftwork, and not forgetting their baking skills, in the form of cakes and preserves.

Some of the members of the Horticultural Society felt that the BBC's recent showing of 'The Great British Village Show' may well have contributed to the increased interest in one of the remaining traditional local flower shows. Chairman of the Society Joan Roberts said,” Many more people have joined in this year and new members to the Brixham Horticultural Society are always welcome, with our next meeting taking place on the 5 th September.”

The show opens for its second day on August 2nd from 10am till 6.30pm on Thursday 2nd Aug.