Island Life Magazine Ltd February/March 2008 | Page 71

GARDENING life Photo: Arreton Village National Farmers’ Union were asked to provide judges, and 11 villages entered in that first year. Bonchurch was the winner. Since then the competition has developed and evolved. Initially an entrance fee was required, but that was later dropped in favour of sponsorship. In 1979 a formal marking system was introduced – judges have to award marks out of 16. And because villages vary in size so much, they are sorted into categories which sound like sizes in a clothes’ shop – from small up to extra large. Villages that are really towns fall into the latter category. As well as the main competition, awards are given for the best conservation project during the year, and the best kept war memorial. Judges are usually approached for the role when they have retired. Chris used to work for Plessy, and, he says, “never expected to be doing this.” But he’s been a judge for nine years now. So from the beginning of May, he and his fellow judges will be looking at hedges, fences and walls; recreational areas; the surroundings of churches; village pavements and signs, notices and village maps; bus shelters, phone boxes, car parks and public toilets. “No-one knows when we’re coming,” says Chris. “We are looking for signs of pride in a village.” For further information contact 01983 296954 or e-Mail: chris. [email protected] Island Life - www.isleofwight.net 71