THE village of Hawkesbury has proved once again it can put on a jolly good show.

For 130 years, with no breaks or cancellations, the Hawkesbury Horticultural Show has delighted thousands of visitors and provided healthy competition for the region’s vegetable growers and jam makers. And with the sun making a rare appearance for one of the last days of the summer on Saturday (August 29), the 2015 event was no exception.

Fiona Rowe, a member of the organising committee, said: “It was extremely busy.

“The sunshine coming out brought everyone out and we sold every single raffle ticket and I believe the bar ran out of beer later in the evening.”

Carnival queen Louise O’Brien and attendants Alexis Powell and Emily Clements were formally crowned by Chipping Sodbury mayor Cllr Paddy Smith before leading a procession including a Wizard of Oz float by Hawkesbury Pre-school, a timber pirate ship, numerous fancy dress outfits including a Royal visit from a giant Queen and Prince Philip.

The number of entries in the horticultural competitions was up this year and with categories ranging from photography to beer, there was something for everyone. A deer and hog roast sold out during the afternoon and stall holders did a brisk trade.

Young and old enjoyed a line-up of entertainment in an arena on the village recreation field, with a falconry display proving particular popular.

There were Herculean efforts in a tractor pulling contest and an auction of the winning produce won lots of attention later in the day, raising £656 for next year's show.

Added Fiona: “There was a really good atmosphere all day. The entertainment went down well and it was very busy.

“We had some really great exhibits in our display marquee and considering the summer we have had, the quality of entries really was very good.”