BURLEY GARDENERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Flower Show 2007
It was a bright sunny day for the annual Burley Gardeners' Association Burley Show, which was held on Sunday 26th August, at the Queens Hall. Over 550 visitors came during the afternoon to view the magnificent colourful display. There were 70 classes to enter in a variety of fields - fruit, vegetables, flowers, produce, wine and handicrafts. There were 94 entrants - slightly more than last year, and in the junior section there were 18 entrants, double on last year. However, the total entries were slightly down on last year with 389 items put forward for judging. Much of this was due to the wet summer weather, which has made growing much more challenging. Congratulations are due to all who entered the flowers, fruit and vegetable classes, as the standard was high, considering the growing conditions this year. Entries in the handicraft classes were increased, with a large number of photographs being entered. There were many new names entering in the Junior section and entries here were more than last year. The youngest entrant was aged 3. The junior's vivid imaginations were strongly reflected in pebble painting, making masks, and arranging flowers in unusual containers!
Results of Burley in Bloom were announced. This year the rules had been changed to Best Village Garden and Container Gardening. This was to enable villagers without gardens or very small gardens to enter. Fifteen gardens were entered. The judge, Martin Walker, was very impressed with the lovely gardens he saw and had a very enjoyable evening wandering around Burley. The village has looked very colourful all summer, and thanks were given to all who supported the competition.
The Chairman, Angus MacIntosh, thanked everyone for entering and presenting such a high standard. He commented that anyone has a good chance of winning prizes, not just the experts, and urged everyone to take part again next year. Caroline Jones, Chair of Burley Parish Council presented the prizes. She said that she had enjoyed looking at every section of the Show. She congratulated everyone who took part.
Visitors could also enjoy the many displays taking place. There were displays by Burley Art Club, Burley Guides on Guide Dogs for the Blind, Memories of Old Burley, Wharfedale Beekeepers, Floral Art and Plants and vegetable by Burley Gardeners' Association.
As usual the auction at the end of the afternoon was very popular as most exhibitors donated their entries and the crowds were delighted to purchase all kinds of produce. The Committee of Burley Gardeners' Association is delighted the Show has been another success and would like to thank all who took part, who helped in any way and those who visited. They look forward to seeing you at next year's Show, which will be held on Sunday 24th August 2008.
Yours sincerely, Mrs. S. Vint (Publicity Secretary)