DAHLIAS drooped, flowers fell away and entries in the vegetable sections were 50 per cent down on last year as Earby Flower Show organisers came to terms with the problem of the missing members.

Despite the disappointing turnout, there were still more than 250 exhibits on show in the New Road Community Centre - and lots of visitors to admire the displays.

But the children's entries were well up, offering encouragement for the future of the Earby and District Gardeners' Society's 45th annual event.

One member who did put in a fine performance was Tony Leyland, who scooped the trophy for most points in all classes.

Margaret Wiseman won the MacDowell Cup or most points in the open classes.

Show secretary Peter Bullock said the society had more than 100 members, but a disappointing few supported the show.

"We need to encourage them to come forward and take an active part," he added.

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