GIANT vegetables and spectacular bouquets of colourful flowers wowed the judges at the 83rd Westmorland Horticultural Society Show on Tuesday.

Dozens of exhibitors produced a vibrant display in Kendal's Parish Church with their vast array of fruit, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, wines and preserves.

Rod Holmes, chairman of the society, said there was a high standard of entries at the ever-popular show.

"The exhibits are excellent, but we've had a little bit of a setback with the recent adverse weather we've had which has affected the cut-flower entries," he said.

"We've still got a very good show regardless and there are some quality flowers, and it's a credit to everyone who has been involved. There's quality right throughout. The vegetables are always very good and they are up to their usual high standard.

"It has been a very good atmosphere because people are surprised given the bad weather conditions in the lead up to the show. It's been a success all round."

Jim Robinson, of Endmoor, was awarded best in show for his shallots. He has exhibited with Westmorland Horticultural Society for more than 20 years and says the event always attracts a friendly crowd.

"It gets a steady stream of people coming through and everyone seems to enjoy it," he said. "The quality is very good and everyone looks happy to be here."

Mayor of Kendal, cllr Andy Blackman, also paid a visit to the Parish Hall to see some of the sights on display.

"We came last year and went away pretty amazed so we were happy to come back," he said. "You look at these things and think 'how can people produce something like this?'

"It's a joy to see and a chance to ask people where I'm going wrong.

"I think any event like this that pulls people together is great and it's an opportunity for people to share common interests. People have come from all over so it's obviously a prestigious event."