Deeping’s fist Pumpkin Competition

Deepings’ first Pumpkin Carving Competition

Radio’s Daphne Ledward was there to help judge the entries

There was a distinctly creepy feel hanging over Swines Meadow Nurseries on 31st October. Was it the bats hanging from the ceiling under which a large collection of pumpkins was displayed, or the spooky decor of the room – surely it wasn’t the cheeky chappie with a chubby pumpkin bottom who greeted visitors who had come to view the grand spectacle of the Deepings’ first Pumpkin Competition? The day was mild and the slight breeze warm for the time of year, so it couldn’t be the weather. Perhaps we will never know what caused the Halloween atmosphere that day, but when all the lanterns were lit and the curtains drawn, several of us felt shivers down our spines.

We judges found it almost impossible to pick winners in each category. Gone were the unimaginative smiley faces of yesteryear; instead was a huge variety of innovative lanterns of all designs and sizes, with entries from the very young to the seniors of the Deepings – the Over Sixties category, won by Gwen Baggs, was an innovation and Braeburn Lodge stepped

Fusion Interiors

in as sponsors. To make the job easier, the judges decided to make individual lists of their favourites and then see how many entries appeared on everyone’s lists. Surprisingly, there was total agreement on most lists and after a check to see we were happy with our eventual choices the awards were made.

Awards were presented by our own Martin ‘Wolfie’ Adams, and Make it Yours had made personalised Halloween bags for some of the children’s classes. In fact, many people had worked hard to stage the event; Swines Meadow is to be congratulated on hosting the event and especially for introducing the judges to delicious pumpkin dishes at lunchtime. I may be thoughtful about carving a pumpkin next Halloween, but if I do I shall know exactly what to do with the inside!