‘It’s taking part that counts’
FROM giant marrows to lockdown poetry, the South Show has returned after a year away, showcasing the creativity and skills of islanders in 20 different classes.
The show began yesterday and will be on from 10am until 6pm today at the Professor Shaw Community Centre St Martin’s. Entry is free.
Judging began on Friday morning, with winners being selected for their achievements in each category including vegetables, baked goods and home-made alcohol.
Southern Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Mike Weysom, who has entered 58 subclasses this year, has been involved with the show since 1963.
‘I’m glad to have it on again as it couldn’t happen last year. We’re expecting somewhere between 1,000-2,000 people to come across the two days,’ said Mr Weysom.
‘It’s very competitive and there is definitely some rivalry between entrants. I love the camaraderie and I love competing.’
Alongside the competitions, there is a raffle and tombola to play as well as books and various vegetables for sale.
Vegetable class judge John Rothwell said entrants were not concerned with the small monetary aspect of winning.
‘It’s the taking part, not the winning. People will start preparing for next year straight after this show is finished.’
This year has seen a decline in the amount of young people getting involved, particularly in the arts and crafts section.
Society vice-president Brenda Sparkes started entering the show as a child and wants to encourage younger people to take part.
‘There are novice classes so you don’t always have to be competing against experts. We want younger people to get involved,’ she said.
Arts and crafts co-ordinator Christine Guerin said she was pleased that adult arts entries had reached 150, but was surprised at the low amount of entries from children.
‘We usually have about 130 entries for the junior section but we only had 30 this time,’ she said.
‘I’d encourage young people to start making now for next year.
‘It doesn’t have to be anything you’ve made specifically for the show, it can be something you made for school six months ago.’
Show times
The show at the Professor Shaw Community Centre is open from 10am to 6pm today.
