A SUMMER of inconsistent weather has provided a challenge for flower and vegetable growers this year.

But it hasn’t stopped them from producing quality, as witnessed at last Saturday’s Allendale Horticultural and Industrial Show.

Allendale Primary School was the venue as the annual event took place for the 164th time.

The impressive number of entries were not only from Allen Valley-based exhibitors, but visitors from as far afield as Bristol.

It was a memorable show for local man Robin Rutter, who won an impressive 22 first prizes in various classes.

A hotly-contested industrial section featured mouth- watering home baking and impressive entries of arts, crafts and photography.

Kate Maughan, who entered categories in cookery, photography and crafts, finished three points ahead of Gail Stephenson to win the industrial section.

First-time exhibitor Margaret Price won best exhibit in the craft section with a soft toy.

Chairman and secretary John Short said: “Overall, the vegetable and flower exhibits were outstanding considering the growing season, so I must congratulate all of the exhibitors for what they have achieved and thank them for supporting the show.

“The quality and quantity of the industrial section was also outstanding.”

Mr Short thanked committee members and other volunteers who helped to make the show a success.”

This year’s guest judge was Paddy Rickerby, chairman of agricultural and horticultural machinery firm Rickerby Ltd.

Among the trophies presented was the Rickerby Trophy for best exhibit in tomato classes, which was won by Catton’s Barry Clayton.

Other features of the show included children’s sports and games, face painting and balloon modelling.