In the Fruit, Vegetables and Flower sections, in the absence of long-standing champion Richard Beales, Bob Miles was the outright winner with three cups to show for his efforts. David Green, Michael Major and Peter Short also acquitted themselves honourably but in case you were thinking there was a gender imbalance, think again: Emma Barry, Helen Ripper, Susanna Jarrett and Louise Clay also secured an impressive number of firsts. Louise, who spread her talents across the spectrum of classes (Flowers, Floral Art and Cookery), went for gold and got it in each section.

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Stuart Forsyth (dahlias), Andrew and Isobel Jones (photos and flower arranging respectively) were all newcomers to the show and went home with first prizes.

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The Cookery classes drew more contestants than ever and the judge was extremely impressed with the quality of the baking this year, so much so that she awarded three joint-firsts for the tray bake to first-time culinary entrants Emma Barry, Susanna Jarrett and Moyra Williams. 15 year old Lottie Horn caused the judge to gasp with admiration at the sight and taste of her decorated cup cakes: “Sheer perfection”, she commented, while Lottie’s mother Jo proudly picked up the coveted Dorothy Baker Challenge Trophy for the most points awarded in the Cookery section.

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Another family triumph was achieved by the Boyes family: Sandra was presented with the Cubitt Challenge Cup and the Certificate of Merit for Floral Art and her grand-daughter Lorien took home The President’s Challenge Trophy for Crafts and swept the board in the Fun Section for those aged under 16 with younger sister Naia not far behind.

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Finally, Anna Couldridge and Carol Rowlatt approached the President arm in arm to receive their joint-first award for the over 16 age group of the Fun Section. A fine ending to a fine day.