The village hall in Egmanton was a colourful sight on 2nd September when once again villagers and friends displayed their entries for the annual Craft and Produce Show. Participation is not limited to villagers and as always friends from surrounding villages and further afield had provided entries. There were 16 entries from one gentleman who went on holiday on the show day. Special thanks to him for his support at a busy time, and also for donating his produce.
This year the age range of the competitors was particularly impressive, with the youngest being aged four and the oldest in her mid-90s.
Despite some of the regulars being unable to take part, the event still received a good entry of over 260. The men had taken up the challenge and entered more wooden crafts than usual, with an intricate spoon on a chain all carved from a single piece of wood taking the prize for the most outstanding craft item for Matthew Fridlington.
Setting up the show included dealing with a monster 12ft tall hollyhock, which became the winner of the new class for the tallest flower. Some creativity was required to stage it.
The friendly atmosphere and enthusiasm of the competitors arriving laden with entries mirrored that of the night before and set the tone of the day to come.
Once the judging finished, people arrived to see how their entries had fared. They were greeted by a riot of colour provided by the floral entries. The photography table held a mass of high quality and well printed images and by the time the prizes were presented, the hall was packed.
The crafters had been busy. Alison Barber made a beautiful child’s dress from fabric designed by her daughter.
The children had, as always, done superbly well. There were some innovative entries from the young ones including a very creative snake made from recycled materials. Rebecca Lee won the trophy for the older children for the second time while brothers Efren and Albin Outram-Tate vied for the younger class. Elder brother Efren came out on top this time, but with his younger brother nipping at his heels.
The cooks had created a good entry of tempting cakes and bakes as well as a colourful array of jams and chutneys.
Many thanks to local Councillor Sylvia Michael for presenting the prizes. The organisers appreciate her interest.
The winners of the trophies were:
- Vegetables: Peter Barber
- Fruit: Peter Barber
- Flowers and Floral Art: Georgina Batty
- Cookery and Preserves: Alison Barber
- Outstanding Craft exhibit: Matthew Fridlington
- Photography: Joy Allison
- Egmanton Cup (7-12 years): Rebecca Lee
- Children’s Plaque (under 7 years): Efren Outram-Tate
For more information about Egmanton Village Hall, visit www.egmantonvillagehall.org.uk.