PILTON SHOW 2006 ROUND-UP by Jenny de Gex Pilton Show week-end got off to a good start with a much smaller-scale Friday Night Concert - the Alternative Pilton Party at the Working Men's Club was a concert of three local bands Once Under, Pinstripe and Zetan Spore. Well-attended and enjoyed by an almost capacity audience, for the space, of approximately 180 people, it was, according to the Show Chairman, Hugh Berry "A great evening, with good atmosphere - everybody enjoyed themselves."
Due to there being no Festival this year, the Saturday Flower Show and Barn Dance were held in a standard sized traditional white marquee. Hearts sank on the Saturday morning when the winds grew ever stronger to almost gale force: fortunately, the rain held off but the wind nearly took off smaller pavilions and tents put up as precautionary shelter! Quite a contrast to last year's blazing hot day... According to Flower Show organiser, Susan Green, "Entries were up at least 65% particularly in the flower and children's sections. More different people entered - about 103 - rather than the same people always winning the same cups, making it more of an open competition, giving everyone a chance. Prizes were presented by former Pilton residents, Anne & Jim Dowling, who still regularly visit the village.
The wind made it impossible for the Hot Air Balloon to fly, or for planned kite-flying, but it didn't deter a good turnout and outdoor events such as children's races and an excellent display from talented dogs put on by the National Animal Welfare Trust. Vintage cars were displayed on the field. A few of the stalls braved the elements outside, but most things were temporarily housed inside the marquee.
In the evening the Barn Dance was a fun occasion for all generations, complete with coloured lights and imaginatively decorated tables: after a simple village supper that just hit the spot, the music from the Miller Band and their caller soon filled the space and had everyone dancing .
On the Sunday afternoon, according to the Show Chairman "A gentler version than normal of "It's a Knockout" was held, as the equipment used previously was stored in the (burnt-down) Pavilion loft. Four teams entered (two voluntarily) for good family fun and entertainment. It was worth going just to see Anthony Austin and Philip Eavis trying to run in a straight line after spinning ten times around a pole! Winners were the Pilton Pros: a team of boys who put the adults to shame. Well done, lads."
The closing church service also celebrated the 40th anniversary of Pilton Playgroup, with short talks on education in the village past and present. After an update on the new Village Hall project, due to open in two weeks time, Show Chairman Hugh Berry thanked "Everyone who helped for their contribution, great or small - all of which is much appreciated - from far too many people to mention individually. All in all, it was an excellent weekend. "
The financial result will not be known for a few weeks but it is hoped to make a small profit for some donations to be made to village organisations. As everything was on a much smaller scale this year, these will be much reduced from recent years. JdeG
5/9/06 |
