This year’s show took place at the usual venue, The Pannier Market,
Bideford, surely the most iconic location of any of the NBS shows.
Again, it was masterminded by Mike Avis, who has been running the
Bideford Flower Show, of which the NBS is a part of, for over fifty
years. More remarkable is that the previous weekend he had overseen the
National Show at Shrewsbury. A remarkable achievement. Where would we
be without him?
Shows such as this are always underpinned by the stalwart exhibitors
and this year was no exception. However, it was pleasing to note that
two showers classified as novices made their mark. Keith Bush of
Longwell Green, Bristol, took the prestigious Don Dewey award for a
single stem pot plant and Derek Skinner from Torrington, Devon, made a
real showing in the bloom classes. Well done.
The show was notable for the foliage plants many rarely seen on the
show bench. A big thank you to all the exhibitors, many who had
travelled a great distance including Dorothy and Ian Rhys Williams from
South Wales to be with us.
The date of next year’s show is still to be decided. There are a
number of factors for Mike to take into account.
As soon as a decision is made you’ll be advised. Whatever the date, see
you in 2020.
Basil Billinger
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A selection of
pictures from this year's Show
Pictures by Basil Billinger
