MEMBERS of Blaenavon Horticultural Show celebrated the group’s 110th anniversary this weekend.
More than 140 members of the public flocked to Blaenavon Active Living Centre yesterday to celebrate the group’s anniversary.
Blaenavon Horticultural Show - which showcases locally grown vegetables and plants - was founded by gardener Thomas Poston in 1907.
The 110th anniversary also coincided with the group’s annual flower and vegetable competition.
Jan Jones, who is the group’s general secretary, said: “Our society was founded way before the First World War - in 1907 to be precise.
“We’ve seen about 140 people come here and celebrate the great news with us.
“We are proud of this day because our society means a lot to its members and the local community.”
The 67-year-old said society members were also “looking forward” to the vegetable and flower competition.
She said: “The competition has coincided with the anniversary because we aim to hold the vegetable and flower competition on the first Saturday in September.
“The competition covers a variety of themes from the best exhibit in the vegetable section to the best exhibit in the flower and culinary sections.”
The hall was full of a host of pristine produce and displays, from four-foot carrots to a variety of different flowers.
Among the crowd was Nick Thomas-Symonds MP for Torfaen and Alan Parry, who was one of the judges.
Mr Parry said: “This is my first time here and it’s been brilliant. There’s a lot of things to look at.
“You can tell a lot of hard work has gone into each of the items which are on display.
“People have been lovely and it was difficult to choose the winners. As I said, the people have been lovely.”
Blaenavon resident Sheila Watkins said she “couldn’t believe” that the society is celebrating its 110th anniversary.
“My mother absolutely loved the group,” said Mrs Watkins. “The vegetable show was one of the highlights of her year.
“She joined it as a young girl and I think her passion for it has been handed down to me.
“Blaenavon wouldn’t be what it is without this group. It has a strong connection with the people.”
She added: “Not many local groups manage to reach 50 years let alone 110 years. 
“Let’s hope it goes on for another 110 years.”
Society member David Meredith grew four-foot long carrots for the event.
He said: “It’s been excellent and I grew and entered my carrots for the event.
“I grew the carrots in sand.
“As a result my carrots are four foot and I’m proud of them.”
There were a variety of awards on the day including best exhibit in the vegetable, flower, culinary, arts and craft, and children’s sections.
Some of the winners included Craig Blunsdon who grew three onions over 250g each and Layla Howell’s cupcakes.
For more information on the group, ring 01495 790635 or visit  www.facebook.com/Blaenavonhorticulturalsociety/