THE number of visitors at the Forest of Dean Chrysanthemum Society show was down by half this year as people dodged the torrential weather.

But on the bright side there were over 200 blooms.

Treasurer Bruce Reid said: "We were 80 pots down on last year which was due to the weather conditions as people didn't want to venture out. We had 68 people enter the competition compared to 132 last year – but there were still plenty of excellent blooms."

The show was held at the Masonic Hall in Lydney and special guest Dr Michelle Hayes, of Yorkley and Bream Practice, presented prizes to winners of the different classes.

The Best Vase in Show was won by Chris Woodhill, of Cinderford, who received the National Chrysanthemum Society (NCS) silver medal for his jap (a variety of plant). The second Best in Show was Bruce Reid, of Lydney, with his five singles and he received the NCS bronze medal.

The certificate of merits was presented to Alan Lewis and Dave Price, both of Coleford. Alan's 'charm' contained around 1,000 flower heads.

Other winners included John Annis, of Cinderford, and Gordon Thomas of Lydney.

The novice prize went to André Hodson, of Clanna at Alvington.

Bruce added: "Thanks to all our sponsors – without their support the show wouldn't have gone ahead."