THE best of Muckhart’s gardening was celebrated over the weekend with the return of the annual flower show.

The yearly Muckhart Horticultural Flower Show was held on Saturday for its 136th edition since it formed, attracting plenty visitors near and far.

Residents submitted entries across a wide range of categories including crafts and hobbies, photography, potted plants, fruit and veg and the popular children’s sections.

Ann Wilson, member of the Muckhart Horticultural Society, was delighted at the turnout and participation on display.

She said: “We had a cup for the baking section and there was quite a lot in the baking section this year, last year there wasn’t a lot of baking produced but this year, we had a good showing.

“There was a cup for the jam chutneys and preserves, crafts and hobbies, pictures and paintings, photography, children’s section across three different age categories, potted plants, fruit and veg.

“There were so many good entries submitted – in particular, we were so surprised about the vegetable section.

“It’s been such a rubbish year weather wise but there was a vast amount of fruit and vegetables so we were delighted with that.”

While the entries were being judged, visitors could keep themselves entertained with a raffle and a range of refreshments on offer.

The judging ceremony was opened by this year’s special guest Peter Hart, who manages the Kirklands Garden in Saline.

Peter delivered a short speech before judging got underway, which Ann remarked was a lovely way to open this year’s show.

“We had a great turnout,” Ann continued. “Not just from local people but from a lot of people who were just passing through the village.

“We always have someone garden related to open the show and this year, we had Peter Hart open it.

“He owns Kirklands Garden and he did a really good little speech so that was an excellent way to open it.

“We have someone different each year and it’s always a challenge for us to find someone new.”

Ann confirmed attention is now being turned to planning next year’s show, with dates and information set to be confirmed.