A 'blooming marvellous' flower show lights up Denshaw once again!

A Saddleworth village is celebrating staging another “blooming marvellous“ flower show.

Denshaw folk and their neighbours were out in great numbers to support the annual event, which included a series of stunning handcrafted scarecrows which appeared around the village.

This year's entries were excellent, with Diane Buckley's "the Willow of Denshaw" the winner, narrowly beating Andrew Vance and Debbie Moulton's entry of "The Minions".

The Olympic-themed "Rowing for Gold" by Judith Fitton came third.

Organisers would like to thank the sponsors and local councillors for their support of the show.

Entries came in steadily with the team of John McStocker and Michael Lyons at reception to ensuring  the administration of the days event flowed smoothly.

Weather and poor growing conditions this year made it difficult for the local gardeners.

But despite this, the Flower and Vegetable judge, Tony Noblett, praised the entries for the quality and quantity of the exhibits.

Organisers and entrants also remembered Malcolm Evans, who has been the show’s judge for many years.

He was President of the Harrogate show, and a judge at national level, regularly being asked to cast his eye over the entries at Tatton and Chelsea.

Organisers were very grateful that despite reducing his responsibilities elsewhere, to the end he continued to come to Denshaw Flower Show.

His wife Margaret, and family came to celebrate his involvement with the local event.

Denshaw Flower show has developed a reputation for providing one of the best afternoon teas available locally.

Thank you to all involved, including Val Durose, Ann Dixon, Elizabeth Feber and Chris Walsh.

Councillor Pam Byrne presented the prizes and, as a stalwart show supporter and competitor, this year she won both her blanched leeks and her delicious home grown grapes.

The father and son combination of S and R Wainwright won most points in show and Jan Ashworth won most points in Home Produce along with best horticultural exhibit.

Michael Lyons led an enthusiastic sale during the auction of the produce at the end of the awards.

Once again, the village has come together for an event which has been a great community occasion.

Dr Vance added: "We would like to thank the Home Produce judging team of Margaret and Kath Stone for their ongoing support, and welcome Tony to the judging team.

"And thanks to the Committee for all they do to keep the show running.”

There are two members of the inaugural team who have been here for the entire 43 shows to date - John Grayson and Joe Halsall.

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.