This year’s show, once again
incorporated into the local Bideford Show, was a special one for the
local society. Recently renamed, Bideford Gardener’s Club, it marked
the Golden Anniversary of the show. This is remarkable achievement
considering how many other shows in North Devon have folded over the
years. Even more remarkable is the fact that Mike Avis has been
involved for all the 50 years.
To mark the occasion Toby
Buckland, the former Gardner’s World present and well known for other TV
appearances, opened the show and presented the prizes. Toby runs a
nursery/garden centre in South Devon.
He spent all afternoon
talking to exhibitors and visitors alike. Unlike another Gardener’s
World presenter, who will remain nameless, Toby was well disposed
towards begonias and all the other show entries. He took a great
interest in how begonias they were cultivated and presented. Beside the
flamboyant double begonias that are always show stoppers he was
impressed by the number and varieties of other begonias in the multi
flora and foliage classes, many with delicate and unusual colours.
It was generally agreed that
the begonia show was one of the best ever taking into account the number
variety of exhibits on display.
None of this would have been
possible of course but for Mike Avis and his dedicated small band of
helpers and of course the exhibitors. Besides the local exhibitors
many had travelled some distance and there was a warm welcome for our
friends from South Wales. It was great to welcome Dave Elliott back to
the show bench with many entries.
Well done to all concerned.
