Shows were being cancelled in towns and villages, people kept telling me they didn't think they would have anything to put into the show. The hot weather had played havoc with everyone trying to grow vegetables and flowers. Entries to me before the show were down on previous years but at least I knew we'd have enough exhibits to put on a good display in the hall and at least I could sit and eat some of the great homemade cakes that would be on sale if things were really quiet.

In the end whilst both the number of entries in the vegetables and flowers were down, the quality of the exhibits plus the quality of entries in all other areas of the show more than adequately made up for the lack in numbers. It was brilliant to see so many members showing for the first time as well as two tables nearly full of children's entries. All the judges were very complimentary about the quality of the exhibits and the fantastic sight that they made in the hall.

As for me being able to sit peacefully and eat some cake - no chance. Word must have got around the town about our refreshments because there was nearly always a queue to get a piece and in the end I had to draw the raffle as the cake had virtually run out and the hall was buzzing with people enjoying the show.

My thanks to everyone that helped make the day a great success - exhibitors, judges, helpers in so many different areas (setting up / clearing down the hall, making / selling refreshments, judges etc) and to everyone that came to support the event.