On Saturday 5th of April 2014 the Ewell Horticultural Association's Spring Show was held at Blenheim High School and opened to the public between 2:30 and 4:30 pm. At this event, participants were able to exhibit their finest flowers, cakes and handicrafts which were judged in certain categories and given awards accordingly. However, it was not just a competition, it was an opportunity for visitors to admire, free of charge, the beautiful flowers and crafts, and to acknowledge how much time and effort was spent on making them perfect for the day.

The Ewell Horticultural Association was started by the Glyn family so that their workers could display their garden and allotment produce. It now has over 1700 members and is thought to be one of the oldest and largest associations of its type in England. The Ewell Horticultural Association is a non-profit making organisation run by volunteers for the benefit of its members. The Association runs 4 shows throughout the year, the Spring Show, Summer Show, Autumn Show and Late Autumn Show.

As a visitor, I was able to look around the displays of flowers, pot plants, cookery, handicraft and floral art creations. These were all judged in their categories and were awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, and sometimes highly commended and commended depending on the number of entries in that category. My favourite display was a floral art creation containing flowers of yellow, indigo and violet and which complemented each other perfectly and looked amazing. Whilst I thought it was amazing, it was only placed 2nd in its category such was the standard of the competition. The crafts were also colourful and interesting to look at, especially the textiles. There were also children’s competitions for cookery and crafts. The children received mini chocolate Easter eggs for entering; along with any certificates they may have been awarded.

After looking around the displays, there were refreshments with homemade cakes available. There were also stalls selling homemade cakes, jams and chutneys, plants and bulbs, gardening sundries, floral art accessories, greetings cards, and a raffle. I bought a pot of white Primulas, and some marmalade.

The next major event the Ewell Horticultural Association will be hosting is the Summer Show on 21st June and I hope to go and see the displays of summer flowers, fruits and vegetables. Based on my experience I would recommend people to go and have a fun, local family afternoon out.