ALTHOUGH cloudy Bream Gardening Society's annual show was opened by a ray of sunshine by the name of potter Mary Rose Young, reports club secretary and president Janet Dowle.

Nearly 1,000 people came through the gates and, despite a few hitches, there was plenty for them to see.

The number of competitors in the main marquee was up, as was the quality of exhibits.

Winner of the Review's heaviest onion section Colin Newman said he was delighted, especially since it was the first time he had entered anything in the show. His secret? "I?don't know. This one just grew and grew and grew," he said.

Crowds gathered to see the Forest of Dean Dog Training Club display and dog show, the Rare Breeds Society exhibition, Forest Beekeepers and Debra's Owls.

The Rugby Club's Ducking Stool gave much amusement and arena events enjoyed by young and old were Bream Silver Band, Whistling Boy Ger and Robert Ford with Punch and Judy and magic.

Ladies from St Peter's, Clearwell, and Bream Rugby Club provided refreshments and there were plenty of stalls and sideshows plus many new amusements.

Committee members said they would like to thank all the local businesses who generously sponsored the

show and to the public who made it such a

successful day.