THE sun was shining for the annual Over Allotments Open Day last weekend.

Hundreds of people turned up to the plot known as Winsford’s secret garden to get a glimpse of what fresh produce is being grown locally and learn about how they can get involved.

Mike Allen, chairman for the Over Allotments Association, said: “A big thank you to the community of Winsford for coming along and supporting our annual open day, and a special thanks to the team of plot-holders who worked hard to make it such a success."

Awards were produced by Winsford Town Council and presented to the best plot holders by town mayor, Cllr Gina Lewis.

John Young claimed the best small plot with Yvonne and Jim Kettle securing the best medium plot.

The best overall plot, and winners of the Dempster Challenge Cup for a second successive year, were Fran and Graham Johnson.

Winsford primary schools took part in a competition in June by producing scarecrows as a class which tied in with the theme of suffrages.

John Malam, the event organiser said: “You could tell the children and their teachers had really enjoyed researching the topic and making their scarecrows.”

The winners of the competition – Over St John’s Primary School – were presented with the Mayor’s Shield Award.

Grange Primary School and Oak View Academy also received prizes for their scarecrows.

Funds were raised at the event for the Over Allotments Association, and charity partners St Luke’s Hospice and Mid-Cheshire Mind.