Villagers do Denshaw proud once again

Saddleworth’s most isolated village was bursting with pride at the weekend with a récord entry for it’s annual flower show and scarecrow competition. 

Villagers from Denshaw in the Saddleworth area and beyond were praised for their incredible support. 

Meanwhile, Denshaw and the nearby Delph flower shows have supported each other over the years, and Gilbert Symes and his team's show at Delph was the week before.  

Village enthusiasm for the Scarecrow competition continued with 12 entries ranging from local hero, Frank Rothwell, new owner of Oldham Athletic, to the longest-ever entry "Otto the Octopus" at 20 meters long. 

Voting was intense, with 529 votes counted and thanks to John McStocker for setting up online voting and those who cast votes both online and on the day. 

The winning entry, The Lego Man, was created by the Shaw family - Becki, Chris, and their children, Pepper and Raven.

It was the culmination of a summer holiday's worth of crafting.

Chris Ryan, Joanne and team came second with their entry 'Up', and Dr Andrew Vance's Otto the octopus came third.

The buttonhole class had the highest number of entries in the flower categories, with victory going to John McStocker. 

Unusually Joe Halsall did not win the best Dahlia, as new entrant Gary Self took this prize, but Joe was comforted by his victory in the sweet pea class. 

Best Flower this year went to a house plant entry, with success for Ann Smith.

David Darlington proved he knows his onions with winning best vegetable in show, while Jan Ashworth swept through the show on a train of success, winning six trophies including the Wibsey Cup for most points in show. 

Meanwhile, Margaret Ramsbottom, the home produce judge, was kept busy.

There were record entries once again, particularly amongst the scone and jam classes, and young entrants surpassed themselves with the Platinum Jubilee bake off, amongst other classes. 

Children's entries are free and there are cash prizes, cups and other treats for youngsters entering on the day encouraging the next generation of flower show entrants.

Lacey Blackburn and Jess Fox jointly won the Bake Off section. 

Hazel Billing took the prize for Best in Home Produce with a delicious cake, while committee stalwart Elizabeth Feber took the trophy for most points in Home Produce. 

The show was opened following judging when Millicent Feber and Muriel Henry were on hand selling raffle tickets. 

The show has become famous for the afternoon hospitality and once again Val Durose, Ann Dixon and Chris Walsh excelled themselves with the selection of afternoon teas. 

Cllr Pamela Byrne, chair of Saddleworth parish council, handed out the awards.

Dr Andrew Vance, Chair of the Denshaw Flower show, helped awarding of cups and prizes. 

And Dr Michael Lyons, running the auction of produce, had bargains for all.  

Said Dr Vance: “The show committee would like to thank the Village Hall committee for providing the venue and all those who came and supported us in the run up to show day and on the day itself.

"We look forward to seeing everyone next year.”

Next year, Scarecrows, on a theme of your choice, are to be revealed ideally by August 19, with the show to be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023.

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