Staging the all-England Championships in the veg classes brought all the big guns to bear and they certainly did not disappoint the crowds.
One could only marvel at the vast array of all types and the judges had a herculean task in deciding the winners.

It is all about attention to detail and uniformity to succeed in these top events plus, of course, having them right on the day. Yes, timing plays a vital part and, the main essential, choosing the right variety.

Speaking of varieties and, for all would-be exhibitors, Sweet Candle, a stump-rooted carrot really came of age at Harrogate. Released by that doyen of veg, Medwyn Williams, the Welsh maestro, it swept the board. It is a replacement for Gringo, now sadly unavailable.

Cedrico was in a class of its own in tomatoes, likewise the Stenner strain of runner beans, prospective exhibitors take note.

I was more than impressed to see many entries in the garden pea class, for, being held so late in September, I expected few, as usually mildew has finished quality peas by this time. Not so at Harrogate. Winning variety, as usual: Show Perfection.

The fair sex showed the lads a thing or two with Sherie Plumb, the national potato champion, following her win the previous week at the Welsh Championship in the runner bean class and won the same class here. Variety? Need you ask? Stenner.

On a more local note, and a tribute to perseverance, Peter Glazebrook of Newark took the heaviest onion class with a superb specimen weighing 14lb 11oz. I say perseverance, for he last won it in 1991 and certainly he's stayed the distance.

The upturn in the grow your own movement certainly received a further boost and many people queued to buy seeds or place orders for 2009. Welcome on board.

Medwyn Williams won the Premier award for his vast mind-blowing display of veg at this, his first attempt.