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from David Edmond, hoping to follow into his footsteps. Well, great aim - go for it and we wish him much success and pleasure along the way.
The judges, the present B.F.S. President, Jim Muil, and Norman Welton from Durham, had been pretty impressed. Jim said what a nice show it had been and praised the time and dedication of the exhibitors in producing such good plants. He also observed though that the lack of sunshine showed through by the great number of unopened buds also present on the exhibits. He was particularly taken aback by the 'Best in Show' basket of Linda Grace. Norman also thought we had a really nice show especially in view of the poor season with the poor light levels. He particularly liked the triphyllas, which indeed flanked the stage beautifully and on entering the hall caught your eye immediately.
On the Saturday we were somewhat disappointed by the lower than usual number of visitors to the Show (so much else on!!), but the atmosphere was buoyant and those who did make it were appreciative of the extra room to be able to explore at their leisure. This was definitely the calm before the storm, for on Sunday we had a never-ending steady stream of viewers, bringing the total well over 600. It was lovely to hear them being so complimentary too. I particularly like this one: "Gosh, they are all so beautiful, they should all have a prize!"
It was nice to see the Lady Mayoress, Mrs. Dorothy Clegg, who was to present the winner's trophies, being so interested too. She arrived very early and took a full tour round the hall. Admiring the great diversity in shapes and sizes, she admitted to having some fuchsias in her own garden, but next to the harbour in Whitby she thought she had to stick to the hardy varieties. She said: "I greatly admire the dedication shown by all exhibitors to provide such a feast for the eye for anyone visiting the show."
At the closing prize-giving ceremony the President and Secretary conveyed their thanks to the sponsors, the committee, the exhibitors and everyone else that helped to make the show possible and challenged us to aim to repeat it all next year, to keep up our tradition of staging superb annual shows. The Millennium Show certainly ranked amongst our best - well done to all concerned.
Very tactfully Franklin and Chris at the time did not name names, in fear of omitting anyone. However, I don't mind sticking out my neck to single out a few people who, in my estimation, do deserve an extra pat on their back for their outstanding contribution. I have already mentioned David Edmond. Then there is Peter Bendall, who just about worked his socks off on the Friday, overseeing the setting up. He was working away relentlessly from the early morning onwards and still there at closing time. Lois Staveley did exceptionally well running the tombola with such enthusiasm. The same applies to Peter Long, once again running a very successful plant stall. The ladies (and gents) overseeing the refreshments did so well too, and so cheerfully, well done. The stewards were great throughout the event, quietly and efficiently getting on with their tasks. Last, but not least we must compliment our Secretary and all members of the committee. In their very first year, they have set a wonderful example of what can be achieved if one works together with great enthusiasm. Spurred on by this first success they are determined to build on it and endeavour to do even better next year. It all bodes well for the future!
Oh yes. And I am not forgetting YOU. Yes, all members and especially the exhibitors amongst you, you keep the Society going and we just wouldn't have a show at all without you! CD
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