Giant vegetables, stunning floral displays and family entertainment are all on the bill at the 2019 Malvern Autumn Show, which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. Taking place on September 28 and 29 at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, the event is expected to attract over 65,000 people.
One of the most popular features of the show is the CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship, with enthusiasts from across the UK competing to see who can grow the largest or heaviest exhibit. With previous world records broken at the show, classes range from heaviest celery to the heaviest aubergine and longest chilli.
Colourful floral displays will be provided by a record number of 40 nurseries, each competing for coveted medals. Advisers will be on hand to help with any gardening questions, from wisteria pruning to planting solutions for a shady corner.
This year sees the return of the Autumn Potager Theatre, hosted by James Alexander-Sinclair, with an array of guests including Carol Klein, Joe Swift, Jonathan Moseley and Alys Fowler (pictured below), who will share their horticultural knowledge.
For those with an appetite for homegrown artisan food, the Food Hall is home to an array of tasty treats and a host of experts giving demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, including celebrity chef Jean Christophe Novelli.
New for 2019 is the Gin Show, showcasing producers from across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire and beyond. Celebrating everything from London Dry to quirky flavoured gins, plenty of samples to wet the whistle are promised, plus a People's Choice award for the visitors' favourite.
The Family Green will host entertainment and activities, including some giant tortoises. In the Top Dogs Arena, canines will be put through their paces, with commentary by broadcasting legend Peter Purves. In the World of Animals, over 100 displays of animals of all shapes and sizes is sure to be a firm favourite with the youngsters.
With hundreds of trade stands covering everything from regional food and drink to bespoke jewellery and flower and plant nurseries, visitors can also get their Christmas shopping in early. Just one more reason to make the Malvern Autumn Show a must-visit event.