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my photos

THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOW

A show celebrating countryside, rural life and farming, is held annually at the South of England Showground at Ardingly.



One favourite display of mine was From Plot to Plate, 'grow your own' harvested straight from the allotment, set amongst vintage kitchen and garden 'alia.



For the first time since the Second World War, food seeds are outselling flower seeds. No longer just a hobby to keep occupied in retirement, an allotment plot is popular with all ages. With organic produce and thrift on the menu, once vacant sites are now full, with long waiting lists.



Gromit measuring his marrow, with prize winning potential!



When it comes to Pot Leeks, among the men of Geordieland, size is important! Competitions date to the late 19th century, when miners began organising shows in clubs and pubs, paying a little each week to fund prizes.

Things have now become so serious that some exhibitors spend the night out with their vegetables to guard against intruders. It has been known for men to sleep with their leeks more often than they do with their wives!

A recipe for a traditional North East Leek Pudding, a recipe dating back to the 18th century.

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