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The day of the Show often seems to start wet and then turn into a fine sunny day. This
year was no exception and exhibitors and stall holders were unsure whether
to cover up or throw caution to the wind. After a slow start, the crowds appeared, ready to enjoy a glorious sunny day of varied entertainment. |
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Old favourites, such as the Model Railway, bottle stall, hoopla and
a fairground organ, were at the Show and more recent introductions like
a crockery smashing stall and the ball pit made a welcome reappearance this
year. As usual, the used book stall drew large crowds looking for a bargain. The charity stalls also seemed bigger and better this year. |
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| New stalls this year included hair braiding, wet sponge throwing, good as new soft toys, a bouncy castle and the "Wheel of Fortune" - all of which were very popular, especially with the children. |
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In the main arena there were the juniors and girls football team - proving that you
don't have to be a professional player to enjoy football. Later, the Solent Dog Display Team showed the agility of their dogs as they tackled a tough jumps course. Judging by the applause, the spectators appreciated this display of canine skill very much. |
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| Several charities (including the Cats Protection League, MS and the Macmillan Nurses) and local groups set up stalls, which attracted large crowds with the variety and quality of goods on offer. |  |
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| Taking their turn in the arena
were the martial arts experts and beginners who entertained the crowds with
a thrilling exhibition of throws and falls. And then the Bournemouth Carnival Band, all dressed as Spiderman, not only marched and played their instruments but persuaded many younger members of the audience to join in too. |
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| Any visitor who cared to stroll around the outside of the arena could choose from viewing ferret racing, a vintage motor bike or a vintage motor car display. All were perfectly turned out and polished to perfection - except the ferrets, of course. | |
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Once again the Flower Show marquee
contained some beautifully produced and displayed vegetables and flowers.
Although the entries were down this year, after an unusually dry growing
season, the quality was certainly not. The entries in the craft and produce section also maintained the standards set in previous years. |
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The Craft marquee gave spinners, woodcarvers, painters, card makers and knitters the opportunity to display and sell their wide range of produce. The prize giving was the climax of another great Show. As the crowds left, it was left to the stall holders and exhibitors to dismantle everything, clear up the mess and ponder how to make it better and even more enjoyable next year! |
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Photography by Andy Dunn |
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Show reports for other years can be found in the Scrapbook |
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