A LONG-RUNNING horticultural society has marked its 125th Annual Show.

The Stoke Poges, Wexham, and Fulmer Horticultural Society have been hosting an Annual Show every year since 1884, except during the World Wars. This year, the society marked a major milestone with its 125th show, and the regular event shows no signs of fading away.

Despite challenging conditions brought about by the dry weather, residents from across the region gathered in the grounds of Stoke Poges school to display their top produce, as well as flowers, arts and crafts, and photography.

Chairwoman of the Horticultural Society, Ruth Rooley, said: "It went very well – we had many people of all ages there. We had a high number of entries despite the dry weather we've had up until recently, so it was a very successful event."

A new prize was created to mark the 125th year of the show by Edward Guinness, to encourage and recognise young people involved in horticulture. Joseph Hulbert won the award for demonstrating, with photographs, how he created an ornamental fish pond.

Meanwhile, the competitive scarecrow competition was won this year by Wexham Court Primary School through a popular vote, with Earl Howe presenting the prizes and trophies to the winners.

Mrs Rooley said: "We were pleased to have a very large number of young people this year. The younger ones are especially excited to come into the marquee and see if they won. The event wouldn't be the same without the Reading Spring Garden Band, who have been playing at the event for over 20 years now."

The Annual Show will be returning on July 27, 2019.