Published: Thursday, 11th September, 2008 07:30
66 years on, village is still digging deep for victory
By Alex Gore
Comments (0)
Print Article
Monster made from Vegetables by Ellie Tull, 6,
A VILLAGE show which has its roots in the Second World War took place for the 66th year last Saturday[6].
The Aldermaston and Wasing Show began life in 1943 as a way of encouraging residents to take part in the Government’s Digging For Victory initiative, which aimed to prevent a possible food shortage.
The show was run as competition with residents producing as much food as they could by farming their allotments, playing fields and back gardens.
Show chairman Pete Oldridge said: “It’s the 66th year of the show and it is still as popular as ever.
“We try to strike a balance between providing exciting attractions and keeping the tradition of the competitions like the vegetable growing.
“It’s also a great time for the community to get together and it’s really amazing what you can see here. By keeping this great tradition going it gives people the chance to have a great day out as well.”
During the war the show was held at the Hind Head’s pub, Aldermaston, but moved to its present day location at the Old Mill in 1962.
This year hundreds of people enjoyed the huge variety of attractions on offer including live music from the Tadley Concert Brass Band, archery, terrier racing, pony rides and plenty of raffles and a tombola.
Competition categories included best jar of jam, vase of mixed flowers, six beetroots and an item of tapestry, embroidery, weaving or crochet.
Aldermaston Parish Council chairman David Shirt said: “It’s been a great success, especially when you consider the weather.
“There is a real buzz about the place and I think that’s thanks to the up keep of traditions such as the terrier and ferret racing. The only time we have ever had to cancel this show was for Princess Diana’s funeral.”
The show also featured displays by the Kennet Valley Woodturners and Aldermaston CE Primary School, whose pupils have prepared a time capsule to be buried on the Wasing Estate.
Chairman of governors Cathy Jones said: “The show is a fabulous event and gives us the chance to show the community what the school is all about.”
Further Details
Gaza protest in town centre