WOOLBROOK Flower Show was a feast for the senses, writes ELLEN COOK

The event, at St Francis Church Hall on Thursday, August 26, attracted a large crowd, from a few months to 98 years old, and raised �330. The floral arrangements were impressive despite the recent bad weather.

Show director Bruce Harcourt said: “I was flabbergasted by the quality and quantity of what appeared. People were virtually getting drowned dropping things off, but from the exhibits you’d think it had been a great summer.”

Jean Bridgeman got best decorative exhibit. “She only started flower arranging last year, so it’s quite a coup,” said Bruce.

The cookery section saw a staggering 18 entries apiece in the apple cake and chocolate chip brownie classes. Apple cake-maker Jean Bagshaw won the Lee Salver for the section’s best entry.

Jean Laidler’s sunset cross-stitch won the Eda Harcourt Trophy for best handicraft exhibit. “If you’re not up close, you’d think it was a painting,” said Bruce. The section also featured a wooden carving of a swan’s head. Known as “the friendly show”, it lived up to its name.

“The more experienced exhibitors helped the new ones, and there was a beautiful atmosphere,” said Bruce, thanking everyone who made it such a success.