Girton Village Show

 

 

History of the Girton Show

Around 1984/85 a decision to revive an ancient custom - the Village Feast" - was made. Every organisation in Girton was contacted and invited to participate in this "feast" of entertainment. A committee was formed with Mr. Keith Barber as chairman. The week was to commence with a village fete on the opening Saturday, other events would follow.

In previous years, there had been a village fete at which the Girton Garden Society had a display of fruit, vegetables and flowers in a large Scout tent on the recreation ground. This display eventually became a competitive event under Royal Horticultural Society rules.

The W.I. approached the Garden Society and suggested the two should combine to present the Girton Show, a competitive event with classes in horticulture, produce and craft, including special classes for children. So the Girton Show was born, the first one presented by the Garden Society, and the W.I. in 1985 at the end of the feast week. Other events during the week, including the Fete, pram races, decorated bicycles etc., have fallen by the wayside, but the Girton Show remains and has become a highlight in the village calendar.

The categories of fruit, flowers and vegetables do not change much - only so many items are available at this time of year. However, the flower arrangements change from year to year, sometimes with a theme (such as the Jubilee) this year, or arrangements for certain rooms in the home.

The produce section changes to allow people to show their special culinary skill, or try something new. There is always a new cake recipe (printed on the schedule) which attracts a lot of cooks! Pity the poor judge sampling 14 carrot cakes!

The art and craft section changes little, except this year, the judge commented that we need 2 classes of photographs, to reflect the increasing use of digital cameras.

All the judges are experts in their field and live outside the village.

There are cups and trophies to compete for including the RHS Banksian Medal and vouchers donated by Unwins of Histon. The Garden Society Cup, Peter Graves Cup, Eustace Bullman Cup, The Cheeseman Trophy, Margaret Morrison Plate, Girton W.I. Trophy, Mary Mather Cup, Two Junior Cups donated by Mrs Jean Sebon, and most recently the John Brookes award in memory of John, a stalwart in the organisation of this event, complete the list of awards to be won.

The Girton Show is held every year mid-July in Girton Glebe School.

 

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