LAPFORD'S annual Flower and Produce Show, organised by the village Horticultural Society, was held in the Victory Hall.

It was an impressive sight with tables strewn with exhibits in a wide range of classes.

Prior to the presentation of awards, Society chairman, Noel Parry and secretary, Jean Black, presented a cheque for £670, on behalf of the society members, to Devon Air Ambulance Trust representative, Chrissie Peel.

Mr Parry explained that a Devon Air Ambulance had landed many times in the village in recent months and the village appreciated the service it provided.

He said that the money had been raised from an open gardens event and from donations received.

Chrissie Peel, retail manager, DAAT, recalled in November 1997 the car she was driving was involved in a serious road accident, a head-on collision with another car, at Dewsmoor, Crediton.

The accident had been caused by a tyre fault, which resulted in her being unable to keep control of the car.

"I was the first Sunday patient to be airlifted. It was only that weekend that the charity was fortunate enough to be able to begin to operate a service seven days a week.

"Since then, I have helped fund-raise for the air ambulance and I am now the retail manager, looking after lots of air ambulance charity shops.

"I would like to thank you all for this donation. With donations like yours we are able to operate two air ambulances and we could not do it without your funding."

The show trophies and awards were presented by Mr Parry.

Best in Show trophy winner was Jessica Burrows, aged 11 years. Most points in the show trophy winner was Joan Henderson. Senior citizen, Joan was congratulated on winning the same trophy for the last 14 years.

Other trophy and best in class winners were: Photography (best in class) - Dennis Robertson - with "Sunset", craft - Joan Henderson - toy for a two to six year old child. Homecraft - Jenny Wilson - with a cheesecake.

Floral Art - Jillian Stalls - Shades of Green, Fruit - Sue Briant-Evans - apples. Vegetables - Edwin Pike - potatoes, flowers - Jessica Burrows - cactus.

Best collection of vegetables - Joan Henderson, Club plant potato - Edwin Pike, children's cup - Jessica Burrows - painted pebble.

Show secretary, Jean Black, said: "Entries held up this year despite the weather and it was a very good show."

alan-quick@crediton

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