THE popular Whitchurch, Morcombelake and Ryall flower and dog show was a huge success this year.

More than 700 spectators basked in the sunshine at the annual August Bank holiday event which is in its 101st year.

Vice-chairman of the organisers, Dave Alley, said this year had far exceeded last year’s century celebrations.

Mr Alley said: “We were a bit surprised by the fact more people attended this year’s event compared to last year but the weather was absolutely rubbish last year and this year the sun shone all day.

“It was a fantastic day and many committee members said to me they thought it was one of the best shows we have ever had.”

The crowds were treated to the backing music of Durnovaria Silver band all day plus the 20 competitions, which also saw an increase on the number of entrants compared to last year, were being held in the marquee, ranging from best fruit exhibit to the best hand-made vase.

Morris dancers from the Wyld Morris Dance troupe strutted their stuff to the delight of the crowds, plus the working dogs race which saw more than 40 dogs enter the races.

A barbecue and a bar were there to quench the hunger and thirst of the packed crowd, with families also able to have a go at the skittles which had been set up.

Mr Alley thanked the team of volunteers who had helped organise and set up the day.

“The committee would like to thank all of our sponsors, stall holders and volunteers, because without them we wouldn’t have been able to put this show on.

“All the hard work and effort they put in really paid off.”

Caroline House won the most points in flower classes with Tricia Fry securing the best flower exhibit.

The best fruit exhibit went to Sharon Gregory and the most points in vegetable class went to Simon Taylor.

Best Vegetable exhibit went to Briony Blair with Tracey Sadler getting the most points in the open vegetable classes.

Most points in home produce went to Jenny Taylor, with Alan House winning the Men’s cookery cup.

Elizabeth Kitcher was judged to have the best handicraft vase, and the best exhibit in photography went to Dave Alley.

Joanna House got the most points in the children’s classes, with Matthew House winning the best child’s exhibit, and Joanna also won the most points in flower arranging classes.

The best in show dog and most handsome dog went to a wired haired daschund called Jackson, owned by Rebecca Pimblett.

Claire Richards and Dale Wright won the ladies and gents flower skittle week respectively, and Richard Legg Jr won the under 16 and highest score.