EIGHTY years of supporting Sandy Horticultural Society came to an end at the weekend when two stalwarts decided it was time to take a rest. Stepping down at the 40th annual show were chairman Vera Barber who will be 90 in October, and her daughter, show s

EIGHTY years of supporting Sandy Horticultural Society came to an end at the weekend when two stalwarts decided it was time to take a rest.

Stepping down at the 40th annual show were chairman Vera Barber who will be 90 in October, and her daughter, show secretary Lynda Whiting.

Both have been with the society since it started in 1966 and have held various positions. Mrs Whiting's three children also support the society.

"It is time for younger people to step into our shoes and for Mum and me to have a rest," said Mrs Whiting.

"Both of us have been involved with the society since it started but we won't be giving up gardening. It is therapeutic and I enjoy growing flowers and having fresh vegetables and I even do my mum's garden."

Top award winners this year were Terry and Rosemary Munns, Gordon O'Dell, Lynn Stock, Jean and Hamish Davidson, Anna Zirnis and Mr P Herbert as well as youngsters Phebe Stewart, Hannah Savile and Oliver Page.