A wonderful afternoon on 12th August saw a record number of visitors at Clutton’s 80th flower show. The crowds poured into Rudges field, the cars had to be sent to an overflow area, the tea tent filled up early, and the huge show marquee was full-to-bursting!

Clutton Horticultural Society was thrilled to have the actor Anthony Head coming at late notice to open the show, along with our MP Jacob Rees-Mogg. Anthony had been asked to come but could not promise anything, due to possible filming commitments – just one week before the show he said he was available.

Both men were shown around the exhibition marquee before it was opened to the public, and were very impressed at the standard, as our competitors include some national champions. They both made a speech to open the show officially, and then toured the field, admiring the animals, stalls, vehicles and children’s entertainments.

After the show marquee, the next most popular attraction was the exhibition ring, where Somerset Morris dancers performed, vintage cars and tractors were paraded, and a mini gymkhana and a sheepdog herded some running ducks – the ducks also ran races through some hurdles. Two other rings had a fun dog show and an agility dog display. Inside the marquees, LollyLollypop gave magic shows for the children and the Mendip Brass Band played.

The tea tent almost sold out of homemade cakes, and was constantly full with visitors glad to sit down and catch up with friends from afar, while the licensed bar had a jolly crowd of people glad to sit in the sun and enjoy the Mendip Brass Band playing throughout the afternoon.

There were plenty of stalls with food and attractions for the children, as well as those selling or promoting their businesses. The raffle had some wonderful prizes donated by local companies and individuals, and the committee is grateful to all those, including the Pony & Trap, Venture Tyres, Hunters Rest, Warwick Arms, Original Cider Company, Farrington Inn, Hong Kong Chef, Railway Inn, Radstock Co-op, The Haynes, RL Walsh and Son, Dando’s Stores, Somerset Toiletries, Hair at the Hub, Lowers Garage, Poppies of Paulton, Farrington’s Cafe, Funky Monkey Studio, Leanne Winter (Bristol artist) and Bath Waste Recycling for a ton of top soil, which was luckily won by a keen gardener!

The day was a huge success with a large number of visitors, and Clutton Horticultural Society would like to thank everyone who participated. Two sets of keys were found, and anyone still looking for them should call show secretary Roger Snary on: 01761 453063.