Over Allotments annual produce battle proves popular as ever

Over Allotments Association (OAA) members were delighted with the turnout for their annual vegetable competition on Sunday, August 27, and in a real 'turnip' for the books, the contest ushered in a whole new set of winners in every category. 

Sixteen competitors battled for one of the coveted top prizes, all presided over by Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch.

This year’s best exhibit winners were dynamic husband and wife team, Rob and Tina Mc Leod, for Tina’s majestic carrot.

The couple also bagged the Geoffrey Harrison Cup for most vegetable points overall.  

Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch (left) with best exhibit and overall points winners Tina and Rob McLeod (Image: OAA)

The Hamlett Cup, for best collection of vegetables, went to Graham Johnson.

The best floral exhibit contest was won by Mary and Robbie Simpson, while the prize for the tallest sunflower went to Mr and Mrs Sant.

Worst in show, and the less coveted wooden spoon prize, went to Jim Kettle, for his unusual cylindrical beetroot, though this is something of an improvement on last year, when committee member and head beekeeper, Rebecca Edwards, took the prize hands down with peas she'd previously frozen.

Champion veg grower, Tina McLoed, said: “We were absolutely over the moon to have won both awards for the first time.

“It was a truly wonderful afternoon celebrating alongside our special allotment family.

“A huge thanks to everyone who made the day great as always.”

Rob McLeod (left) found a novel way to stop Ernie leaving before the scoring was complete (Image: OAA)

Rebecca Edwards said: “It’s been a bit difficult with the weather. The day before was just constant rain, and to be able to show your veg, you’ve got to be able to pick prime quality.

"Despite that, it was a great day, and people turned out. Everyone had a fantastic time.

“Those who win prizes take it quite seriously, but a lot of us just do it for the fun and then sense of community you get out of it.

“We have the most wonderful allotment family here at OAA.

There was an excellent showing of runner beans and courgettes (Image: OAA)

“We have great times together throughout the year, and there’s a really fantastic community feel where everyone is made welcome and included.”

Rebecca explained Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch, was a great sport, as when totting up the scores took longer than expected, he allowed himself to be put in a set of stocks so he couldn’t slip off when no one was looking.

“I don’t know the ins and outs, but they somehow managed to frogmarch him into the stocks” she added.

“He seemed to enjoy it.”