Entries to Wash Common show increased by 80 per cent

The number of entries into the 2023 Wash Common Garden and Crafts Show increased by 80 per cent, compared to last year’s event.

Newbury mayor Nigel Foot attended this year’s show – which took place at Falkland Cricket Club as part of the Wash Common Festival on Saturday, September 9 – and he commended the quality of the exhibits on display and its continuing growth.

The junior section was once again highly contested, but the Barnes Cup was eventually won by Matilda Hogg who beat her closest rivals by two points.

The junior classes included animal models made from fruit and vegetables, rocky road squares and Lego models.

The quality of the garden produce on display continued to impress, with Peter Wright winning this section once again.

He also took home the Mary Taylor Cup for the Wash Common resident with the most points in the entire show.

Janet Anderson retained the Dr Elizabeth Dyson Rose Bowl for the flower arranging section and Corrin Mildenhall deservedly won the trophy for the craft section.

Victoria sandwich sponges, gingerbread cakes and cakes containing vegetables proved popular in the baking and preserves section, with Susan Wright retaining the Millennium Shield.

Entries in the art and photography section were up by over 50 per cent, and this section was won by Andrew Salisbury.

The Jean Bates Cup for the family with the most points in the show was won by John and Heather Rasman.