Prized leeks – and so much more – to go on show in Gainford

THE results of a year’s hard work will go on show when Gainford Cross Keys Leek Club holds its annual show on Saturday, September 9.

But officials are keen to stress that there is so much more to the club than simply leeks – and they are keen to attract a good crowd along to see a wide variety of produce.

In fact, only four of the 36 classes in the show are dedicated to leeks. For vegetable lovers there are also onions, carrots, potatoes, cabbages, beans, marrows, cucumbers, parsnips and peppers.

For something more easy on the eye, expect stunning displays of dahlias, gladioli sweet peas, roses and other flowers.

The show is held at the village’s Scout Hut and is open to the public from 2pm, with free admission.

The event differs from the recent village produce show in that only members of the leek club can take part.

Membership currently stands at 13 and secretary John Challen said he hoped a good turnout of people to have a look at the produce might inspire some to sign up and have go.

“We have got to get people through the door to get them interested in joining to carry on the tradition,” he said.

The club is well over 50 years old. Despite closing down for five years in the early 2000s, it was revived in 2008 thanks to an upsurge in interest, which continues.

This year’s produce show will feature the efforts of two novice growers who are recent recruits to the club.

“That went against the trend for leeks,” said Mr Challen. “There was a time when every village used to have one or two leek clubs. There used to be three in Gainford at one time.”

While the number of people growing leeks may not be as great as in the past, the pastime has spread.

“Leek growing used to be confined just to the North East, but now people are growing all over the country. I have even had inquiries from India and the US.”

Mr Challen said prospective new members should not be daunted by seeing the impressive leeks on display.

“We are not the type of club that keeps secrets. There is always plenty of help for members with growing anything really.”

However, he said growing leeks does take dedication.

“As soon as one season ends, the next starts,” he said.