DAHLIAS were the star of the afternoon at a horticultural show which dates back to 1937.

Falconwood and District Horticultural Society's 67th show attracted exhibitors from as far away as Frinton-on-Sea in Essex.

The hot, dry July brought problems for some vegetable growers but the recent rains meant fuchsias and particularly dahlias were plentiful and of high quality.

The baking classes, introduced only three years ago, have become fiercely competitive. The flower arranging section also attracted some outstanding displays.

Although entries were disappointing in the children's classes, Thomas Dawson, 10, exhibiting in his first show, won a cup for his miniature garden and also competed in several adult classes.

The number of exhibits in the show was up by 20 per cent and the number of exhibitors increased by 10 per cent.

The society's president, Bexley mayor Councillor John Eastaugh presented the prizes.

The major winners were: Margaret Stone who took the Jack Freeman trophy (vegetables), Buckingham Cup (highest points in show), Castwood Cup (single rose), Jamieson Memorial Cup (roses), Perpetual Shield (vegetables), Rayner trophy (potatoes), Top Tray (vegetable collection), Top Vase (flower collection), Golden Jubilee salver (cake); Harry Crack who won the Tedder trophy (hanging basket), Meadows trophy (house plant display), Taylor Cup (pot plant), Banksian Medal (most successful new exhibitor); Derek Marles (pictured) who won the committee memorial trophy (best in show), Curtis Cup (dahlias), National Dahlia Society silver and bronze awards.

Other winners were Bill Cross: Fuchsia Spoon, Harvey trophy and British Fuchsia Society silver spoon (pelargoniums); Brenda Colley: British Fuchsia Society spoon and Dave Tyrrell trophy (fuchsias); Dave Young: Dexter Cup (fruit) and Meyer Cup (best floral exhibit); Dora Lemon: Jamieson rose bowl (highest score, flower arranging) and Paget Cup (best small flower arrangement); Gerry Worf: Fisher Cup (beans); Pat Woodock: Frank Brown trophy (best flower arrangement); Emily Dilworth: Novices Cup (children's picture); Thomas Dawson: Garnham Cup (miniature garden).