Bumper turnout as almost 900 entries fill St Johns Produce Show

Almost 900 exhibits filled St Johns Methodist Hall as the village’s annual Produce Show enjoyed a bumper turnout.

The event, held on Saturday, September 5, attracted entries across a wide range of categories, including produce, flowers, arts and crafts.

Organisers said the response exceeded expectations, with the increase in entries from children proving a particular highlight.

Chairperson Sue Staley said it was a ‘delight to see the faces of our younger supporters’ as they spotted their exhibits on display, particularly when they discovered they had won a prize.

This year’s show also raised money for the Great North Air Ambulance and Age Concern Isle of Man.

After judging had taken place, Mandy Karsa, representing the Great North Air Ambulance, and Maureen Cowbourne, from Age Concern Isle of Man, were given the task of choosing the Best Exhibit in Show.

They considered the winning entries from each section before selecting a collection of vegetables entered by Marcus Avery as the overall winner.

Visitors were able to enjoy refreshments during the afternoon before the hall filled again for the evening prize presentation.

Mandy and Maureen returned to present the silverware and spoke about the work of their respective charities and how money raised through the show would be used.

An auction led by Lee Cain followed, with organisers saying a packed hall enjoyed plenty of ‘banter and laughter’.

One of the highlights saw the show’s winning lemon meringue pie auctioned for £35.

Sue thanked everyone who had helped make the event a success.

She said: ‘We would also like to thank everyone who attended and supported the show, and especially all our exhibitors for the time, effort and enthusiasm they put into producing such a fantastic array of exhibits.’

Main sponsors Dandara and Ellan Vannin Fuels were also thanked for their support, including covering the cost of engraving the trophies.

Organisers said the backing received had helped ensure the show could continue its traditions for future years.