Gardeners delight Magna judges

8/19/2010

This year’s unusually dry summer has left gardeners frustrated and disappointed, so judges didn’t know what to expect when they went round to look at the entries in this year’s Magna Housing Association gardening competition.

“Watering has seemed to be a way of life, and very hard work,” said David Downton, from Dorchester Horticultural Society, who judged the contest with Magna residents John Foot, who has won the competition several times in the past, and Kevin Parry, who is vice-chairman of the association’s Community Connections residents’ group.

 “It seemed a daunting task, to fit in the many entrants spread from Crewkerne to Lyme Regis in the two days allocated for judging. But, luckily, we had the services of Ken Bodycombe, from Magna’s community development team, who was a judge last year.

“He did us proud. His rapport and friendship with entrants helped make the event enjoyable and educational.”

The judges were amazed by the lovely gardens they saw in all categories.
“Colour, extraordinary use of space and creativity, reflected the dedication of the gardeners,” David said, and added that gardeners who look after communal plots deserved a special mention.

Mrs E Malcolm and Mrs P Arney from Fairfield, Chickerell, who won the communal gardens category, were awarded the John Foot Cup.

“Besides the gardeners, we met some great characters who not only talked with great enthusiasm about their creations, but also introduced us to their hobbies and interests, from a ‘designer blue painted chicken house,’ to the most beautiful ‘working ferrets’ we had ever seen!” he said.

The judges had a comprehensive tick list to help them make difficult choices.
David said residents’ commitment to individual gardens and communal gardens reflected ‘a pride of tenancy’.

David said: “We have suggested revising and extending categories for next year’s competition with perhaps vegetable plots being included separately.

“We congratulate Magna, especially in these austere times, for continuing to fund this competition.”

Results:
Large garden: Ms G Davies, Cheselbourne. Small garden: D Johnson, Fox Meadows, Reynards Court, Crewkerne, and Mrs M Hewlett, Vernall’s Road, Sherborne. Communal garden: Mrs E Malcolm and Mrs P Arney, Fairfield, Chickerell, who were awarded the John Foot Cup. Patio and container: Mr and Mrs R Cox, Queens Road, Bradford Abbas. Vegetable garden: J. Davis, Lubbecke Way, Dorchester.