NAHA 84th annual show this Saturday

The North Antrim Horticultural Association Flower Show has its roots way back in history and once again is eagerly anticipated by the local gardening community. The 84th Annual Show will be held on Saturday 11 August in the Parish Centre at Queen Street, Ballymoney. This event attracts a large number of exhibitors from a wide area.

There will be the usual wide range of classes for flowers, fruit and vegetables, home industries and handcrafts. Entries are welcome from all-comers so why not make this the year you join in and have a go.

You will be amazed how much fun it is. When you’ve never entered before it can seem rather daunting. The place most novices go wrong is entering something a judge marks a NAS or not as schedule. So start by getting a copy of the show schedule and follow the rules. These can be obtained from Auldwyn Calderwood, Show Secretary, Tel: 028 2765 7477 or Kenny Bacon, Tel: 028 2766 6925. When staging your exhibits don’t be frightened to ask other exhibitors for advice as they are always willing to share their knowledge.

The Show opens to the public at 1.00pm with the presentation of Cups at 3.00pm by Chief Guest Dr John Johnston. After viewing the many exhibits why not relax and enjoy a cup of tea provided by Ballymoney Women’s Institute. The Show is a wonderful opportunity, not only to see the result of the best horticultural and related skills, but also to meet the exhibitors and pick up or share the tricks of the trade. At 4.30pm members of the public will have the opportunity to buy the produce at the traditional auction.

The Association will this year be supporting Helping Hand, Children’s MRI Scanner Appeal for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children as their nominated charity.

Admission for adults will be £2, while children accompanied by an adult will get in free. Everyone will be made most welcome at this 84th Annual Show.