Perfect produce at Middleton show

GARDENING giants of the upper dale were out in force for one of the last shows of the year.

Middleton-in-Teesdale’s 76th Chrysanthemum and Vegetable Show attracted entries from young and old in more than 80 busy classes.

Youngster Joe Richardson, from Marwood, had a successful outing, picking up first prize with his six red shallots.

The 12-year-old tends to his own garden and put in a good performance despite his greenhouse blowing down.

Elsewhere, entries from the village primary school were up and there were plenty of familiar faces among the winners.

Show president Liz Beadle said the handicrafts section was particularly strong this year.

She added: “The judge was impressed with the fine detail and took some time over her decisions.

“Florally we are probably down this year because of exhibitors having other things to see to this year but overall

it’s a good balance and the school has done a really good job.”

Organiser Anthony Coatsworth boasted a solid haul of prizes but he admitted it had been a “funny year” for growing.

He added: “It was dry early on but it came on wet and cold and it’s been damp ever since really.”

Chris Chivers, headteacher of Middleton-in-Teesdale Primary School, was on hand to award the prizes.

“The kids love entering it as soon as they know there are going to be prizes involved,” he added.

“We’re definitely keen to maintain it as it’s one of the traditions of the village – having said that my scarecrow didn’t win.”