THE countdown is on until the annual Marymass Flower Show.

Organised every year by Irvine Horticultural Society, the show once again returns to the Volunteer Rooms to round-off the Marymass festivities on Monday, August 22.

Entries are free, open to everyone - and its not just about flowers.

There are prizes up for grabs for fruit, preserves and crafts as well as competitions for children.

Irvine Horticultural Society are particularly keen this year for first-time entrants to help fill the shelves and, importantly, keep the show running for future years.

Bill Anderson, secretary of Irvine Horticultural Society, said: “Many local residents don’t know that Irvine Horticultural Society organises and hosts the Marymass Flower Show in the Volunteer Rooms. 

“Although it’s classed as a flower show, there are sections for fruit, vegetable baking, preserves, crafts, novices and children. 

“We are not professional growers, just amateurs who bring along whatever we can to put on a show for the public and to keep the event running. 

“Most people I ask to enter say that their entries wouldn’t be good enough. 

“Well, they don’t know that until they take part.”
He added: “To be honest, we’re not looking for perfection.

“We’re looking for first time entrants to come along and help to fill our shelves and realise that what they put down isn’t as bad as they thought and I bet most will return next year. 

“It costs next to nothing to enter and there are no major cash prizes. 

“You could win a few pence, a couple of pounds or a trophy, but we enter mostly because it’s part of our hobby, and for fun. 

“Because of falling entries, it’s becoming more difficult each year to keep the show going.”

Anyone interested in taking part can call Bill on 01294 277461 or on 07846 980193.