All hands on decking for big show

Gardeners are picking the best of their crop for The Great Autumn Show, incorporating the Stafford Borough Horticultural Show, on September 12 and 13.

The event at Staffordshire County Showground will features shows and displays by the National Chrysanthemum Society, National Vegetable Society, British Gladiolus Society, and Stafford and District Fuchsia Society,

And there will be the usual trade stands and stalls.

The weekend show has been getting bigger and better every year.

It now features more than 100 amateur competition classes open to all ages and abilities, ranging from the traditional fruit, vegetable, flower, domestic and floral art sections to handicrafts, digital photography and children's art.

Organisers are looking for local people to join the committee to help run the event.

Help is also needed to set up and dismantle the show.

Show secretary Julie Craddon said: "Whether people are green fingered, a domestic goddess, or a little bit crafty, they should all enter the show.

"Alternatively if anyone wants to blossom behind the scenes they can join our committee to help organise the event or help set up and dismantle the show."

"It is a lot of hard work but we do have a good crew to help us out. The tables are ordered and all the catering is in hand.

"We have invited a few local groups such as the Amerton Wildlife Rescue who come every year."

Anyone wishing to get involved or obtain a free show schedule can Stafford Horticultral Society members and show secretary Julie Graddon on 01543 6767016, or email c.graddon@virgin.net