VILLAGERS in Allenheads played host to the wider community for the annual High Forest Show at the weekend.

The future of the event was secured using funds generated during a charity auction last year, and organisers decided to open up entries for the competitive classes to people from across the district.

As a result, this year’s show was bigger than ever.

Vegetable and flower classes were both hotly contested, while tempting treats were on show in the cookery classes and food tent.

Committee member, Sue Wardle, said: “It was a very entertaining and successful show.

“The standard of exhibits was excellent which undoubtedly made judging very difficult and, as the show is now open to all, we had quite a few new exhibitors. Long may that continue.”

“This year’s theme was heroes and heroines and it was lovely to see not only the committee and helpers dressing up, but also the stallholders and some of the attendees at the show too.”

Costumes ranged from suffragettes to Second World War Land Girls.

The show’s cooking demonstrations proved popular with visitors and included displays by Titu Ahad, who runs Saathi Indian restaurant in Hexham, and chef Jill Weatherburn, who has supported TV chefs such as Mary Berry, James Martin and Gino D’Campo.

Sue said: “The cookery demonstrations were very well received, and there were also plenty of craft stalls, tombola and ultimate lemons.

“A great day was had by all and we are already looking forward to next year.”

Mor einformation on chef Jill Weatherburn can be found at: https://www.jillweatherburn.co.uk/