PRODUCE shows and their ilk could, perhaps unfairly, be accused of being aimed predominantly at older generations.

In an attempt to combat to that particular stereotype, organisers of the Parish Produce Show in Newbrough decided to put forward a new, rather unusual category - the best handmade thong.

It certainly got people talking, and the winner of the most talked about class in the show was Dorothy Sowerby, whose knitted effort also won the best exhibit in craft award.

The entry that came third also attracted much comment and a few ribald remarks, as it was knitted from baler twine.

Elsewhere, the show had fewer entries than in previous years, particularly in the horticultural classes, where the up and down weather had made it difficult for growers.

The show committee also made a new decision that meant competitors could only make a single entry per class. The idea was to give less experienced exhibitors of getting a prize ticket - and it worked.

While entries in the industrial classes were also down, the total number of prize-winners was greater than in previous years.

David Walton swept the board in the vegetable classes. The judge had no hesitation in naming his collection of vegetables as best exhibit.

David did face stiff competition in some classes, particularly where apples and pears were concerned.

In the flower section, Vicky Curry’s entry of three ball dahlias had the judge extolling their perfection, while in the class for a pot plant there was much to admire about the unusual Brazilian shrub Abutilon megapotanicum.

Michelle Robinson’s blueberry, honey, and lemon cake was enough to earn her the award for the best exhibit in the baking section.

There was also an epic struggle between Margaret Tindall and Nick Springham over the trophy for most points in the bakery section.

Margaret eventually won out, after the winner was determined by a countback on the number of first prizes.

The difficult to judge children’s classes were well supported by Newbrough Primary School, and the entries showed a wealth of talent among the younger members of the community. Particular praise went to Blake Taylor and Ruth Walton, for their prize winning entries.