President happy with support for the island’s oldest show

Having first taken place in 1909, the South is the oldest of the island’s traditional horticultural shows and it encompasses St Martin’s, the Forest, St Andrew’s and St Peter Port.

Show president Mike Weysom said that while Friday had been a little quieter than normal, Saturday had seen a steady flow of people.

‘It might have been busier if we’d been able to have the dog show and bonny baby competitions,’ he said.

The horticultural exhibits had been of a high standard despite the wind and rain in the days before the show, he said.

Among those attending were Juliet and Barry Grief, who said they had not taken part for about four or five years.

‘The show is smaller than it used to be but I think it’s important that it’s kept going for the community’s sake,’ said Mrs Grief, a States finance officer.

‘It’s nice to see exhibits from people you know.

‘The cakes in the canteen are always yummy and its a chance to meet up with people too.’

Avid gardener Brett Moore, wife Yolandi and their son Charlie, 8, had just moved in to the district and said they would be taking part next year.

‘Charlie wants to exhibit beans,’ said Mr Moore. ‘He likes computers, but he likes to get his hands dirty too, which is good.’

Mrs Moore said she and Charlie also liked the miniature gardens and there was a particularly good one among the show entries with hedgehogs in it.

This year’s show was contained within the Professor Shaw Community Centre.

Mr Weysom said he could not see the show returning to its previous tented format unless another 20 to 30 volunteers came forward.

He said he was grateful to all volunteers who had made it happen in 2021 and to sponsors who had supported it.