Organising a local show ?

[sewer rat]

Hi folks
Is anyone out there on the Interwebby involved in organising a local flower, fruit, veg and produce show. For my sins, I have suggested it, and it is now down to me to get the ball rolling. I'd be most grateful for any advice on classes, judging requirements etc - any links to useful sites would be good too.
Thanks in advance

[roitelet]

Did it once and it was a huge amount of work and I wished I'd kept my mouth shut!

If you can contact some one who organises another local show and they will be able to give you some advice. Keep it simple is the best advice I can give you. You can always expand later. PM me if you want more details.

BTW the show that I started is still running after 20 years but it is now someone elses baby!

[ginger ninger]

Has nobody ever told you to "sit on your hands", or try not to waft flies away with you hands while in these kind of meetings Sewer Rat..

[amandaandherveg]

Do you have a WRI near you SR - you could have a chat with some of the ladies there, I'm sure they may be able to help you.

[SarzWix]

You need to pester local businesses to sponsor trophies for things like "Most Points Overall" and "Best in Show". Also individual classes if you can (the business donates the 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prize money in return for their name in the programme).
The N.V.S might be able to provide a judge and/or help with setting up the rules etc. Also, the Dahlia Society and a similar Crysanth one might be able to help with the flower section. The Women's Institute president is usually the judge of the 'home' section at our show.
I bet the NVS website would be a good place to start?

[JanetKent]

I'm glad you asked that question Sewer Rat because l've done the same thing at my local village fete committee meeting !! l thought how nice it would be to have a fruit and veg growing competition...and l sort of know a judge who has agreed to do the honours...now l'm stuck as to what to do next !!
Excuse my ignorance Sarah - but what is the NVS ??
l was just thinking of getting someone handy with glue and a needle to make some rosette things...but maybe that's not enough ??
HELP !!

[Pumpkin Becki]

Rat, I just happen to have my Garden Society handbook with me and its got all the classes listed for the three main shows plus the Summer Fete one. Its also got rules for entry and handy tips for exhibitors.

If you'd like, I could scan the relevent pages and email them to you. PM me if you think it would be helpful.

[chriscross1966]

National Vegetable Society
The National Vegetable Society, advancing the culture, study and improvement of vegetables.

[Digger-07]

HI SR - just came across this thread, have you got any further with your show plans. Hope to get to the Tain Gathering on 12th August if all goes well.