VEGETABLE growers left it late before a rush of last-minute entries at the 83rd Wellington Flower Show.

The first exhibits for Saturday’s event at Wellington School weren’t submitted until shortly before the Wednesday deadline.

And in the end, entries were up by more than a quarter, although organisers were disappointed to see a dip in the number of entries in the cookery and children’s classes.

Show secretary Sheena Page said: “Without our exhibitors, there wouldn’t be a show and it was pleasing to have quite a few new faces this year, as well as seasoned regulars.

“Thank you to all the visitors who came on Saturday and also to the committee to organise the show.

“A lot of hard work is involved but it is gratifying to see so many people enjoy what is a popular event in the Wellington annual calendar.”

New judges this year were Bill Bolt and Bill Jones (fruit and vegetables), Chad Stone (pot plants), Sheila Sandifer (arts and crafts) and Bee James with Rachel Lucas (children).

Prizes were presented by Colin Trewren, former nursery manager for Taunton Deane Borough Council.

Mrs Page added: “The show is very grateful to local shops and businesses who support us, whether by placing an advert in the schedule or by sponsoring a section of the show.”

The society’s spring show will be on March 24 next year at Wellington Prep School.