Peel Gardeners’ Association has announced its annual show will go ahead.

The organising committee recently unanimously agreed to hold the 78th show, although there will be some changes.

Chairman Bert Quayle said: ’As the majority of our island’s garden and produce shows have been cancelled, it was thought that by holding a show, this would give an opportunity for all those people who have taken up gardening and growing vegetables during lockdown to actually participate in a show.

’So to that end we included in our schedule a considerable number of classes for novices ie, in flowers, vegetables, photographs, handicrafts and confectionery. Prize money for this show has been doubled.

’Because this is a rather late decision, we have had to look at venues outside of Peel to stage our show and so we are delighted to inform you that Central Marts Ltd has offered us the use of its mart building to stage our show.’

As this building is situated at Knockaloe, and with the Royal Manx Agriculture storage store being next door, Mr Quayle confirmed the show will be able to use the tables and chairs on site.

To give prospective entrants more time to make ready their entries, the show will be held on a later date of August 29, which is a Saturday and not the normal Thursday show.

Entries will be accepted on Friday, August 28, from 5pm until 9pm. Only confectionery will be accepted on Saturday, August 28, and not later than 10am. For further information, ring the secretary, Margaret Kennaugh, on 803269 or chairman, Bert Quayle on 462234 or 843157.

The garden competitions, which are promoted by Peel Gardeners Association in conjunction with Peel Town Commissioners and sponsored by Watsons Nurseries Greeba, will also take place.

These competitions are confined to the people of Peel and comprise of six different categories:

l A small private garden

l A large private garden

lCommissioners’ gardens

l Hanging baskets/window boxes

l Community displays

l Allotments

The closing date for these entries has been brought forward to Saturday, August 1, and they will be judged on Monday, August 3.

Entries will be accepted by telephone by ringing Mr Quayle.