ORGANISERS of the 44th annual Soudley Flower and Produce Show were delighted with the large turnout of exhibitors and visitors who braved the pouring rain to attend the event.

Despite challenging growing conditions the show saw some of the best entries of flowers and produce on record.

Winner of the overall show was local man John Stacey who took home the Stanley Joiner Rose Bowl with Soudley’s Emma Hancock taking second place and winning the Farm and Clarke Cup.

Taking the coveted title of “Domestic Goddess” was Caroline Heyworth who was recognised for her exceptional baking skills while Leena Stacey won the Ken Andrew Rose Bowl for her floral displays.

The Soudley School Children’s Cup was won by Ethan Duberley who narrowly beat his sister Anya, a previous three times winner.

First time entrant Dale Bullock took home the White Horse Inn Trophy for his homemade wine which included a red, a rose and a delicious port.

The produce was all auctioned off at the end of the show raising nearly £400 for the Village Hall upkeep fund.

This included the homemade wine despite some bureaucratic objections regarding the need for excise duty to be paid but the organisers felt that this was an unnecessary concern and went ahead as in previous years with their fundraising efforts.

Chairman Janet Ellis said a great time was had by all and, most importantly, more than £800 was raised for the hall.

“The aim of the show is for the enjoyment of some friendly local rivalry at the same time as raising funds for the hall,” she said.

“The show was a great success and we look forward to inviting exhibitors and visitors back again next year.”

•See this week’s Review for more photographs.