Theale Flower Show

Both Parish and Open classes in the marquee were a little down on last year, but that may have been a reflection of the growing season, which brought many things on too early, and the recent rains, which damaged many flowers, not to mention the slugs and snails which have increased logarithmically over the past 2 years! However the standard of entries remained very high and the new computerised entry system proved a great success and hugely speeded up the whole entry process. Next year may be even quicker with the possibility of on-line entry for those with the technology!

You can download a list of 2009 Competition Winners here.

The field rapidly filled with exhibits (vintage engines, cars, motorcycles and tractors, bee keeping  advice plus Wedmore Green Group and assorted livestock), plus entertainments (face or pottery painting and glitter tattoos, two bouncy-castles, Punch and Judy and a magician) and stall-holders purveying everything from plants and crafts, to wooden sculptures, jewellery, photographs even menswear. The variety of food available was fabulous catering for most preferences, both sweet and savoury plus, of course, a bar and cream teas were available within the marquee.

An arena was set aside for a companion dog show which attracted a lot of interest amongst competitors, both pooch and pedigree, and spectators alike. A second was set aside for childrens sporting activities, which were also well supported, whilst adult sporting abilities were tested by tractor pulling team competitions and, for the less robust, skittles.

Meanwhile between all these events there was a brass band playing a variety of popular tunes and a fine display of clog dancing by a courageous troupe of ladies prepared to demonstrate their skills on upturned tables!

After a rapid turn–around, to convert the Show Tent into a dance hall for the evening, the scene was set for Le Freak, a ‘70s–’80s music tribute band, and the Panborough Inn disco manned by D.J. Phil. The music set the tone for the whole evening getting (and keeping) everyone onto the dance floor right from the very start. Many of the audience were attired to reflect the musical period (increasingly the trend for Theale Flower Show events) and the atmosphere was extremely convivial with a succulent pig roast supplied by Hectors Farm Shop and a well stocked (and well manned) bar maintaining liquid sustenance throughout the evening.

Now what? Once the sums have been done then roll-on 2010 when, with all memories of 2008 finally banished, Theale Flower Show will be back again, better than ever!