More events across Inverclyde are facing cancellation or delay thanks to ongoing pandemic restrictions imposed across the country but, necessity being the mother of invention, organisers are finding new and creative ways to retain some continuity in 2020. Entries for this year's Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Flower Show have been invited via an online portal where growers can submit images of their work for judging.

In a look back to more normal times, I have selected some shots from previous flower shows, where people could mingle and enjoy a get-together to admire the green-fingered talents of friends and neighbours in the village and surrounding area.

Pic1:

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society flower show judges Hilda Peacock and Jill Russell joined chairman Jack Stevens in this picture taken in the 2000.

The large displays of vegetables, floral art and crafts made a great start to the new century and a colourful picture spread in the Telegraph too.

Pic2:

Entries numbers for the 1994 flower show were down on the previous year, thanks to a late spring that affected Chrysanthemums and Dahlias particularly.

Vegetables however were well represented, with lots of quality produce impressing judges. Top prize of 'most meritorious exhibit' went to Mr Alex Inglis, for his set of three leeks.

Pic3:

Flower shows generally feature arts and crafts sections and the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society is no different. Many fine exhibits at the flower show of 1995 presented us with lots of picture opportunities. Young Claire Pomphrey and Louise Gannon eagerly bought their raffle tickets in the hope they might win knitted creation Berty, and in doing so, they helped bring about this picture which took pride of place in our picture spread.

Pic4:

John and Joyce McCusker struck bronze with their first entries to the show back in 1999.

Although shot in black and white, this pic of the couple's striking hanging basket display still made a big impression with both Tele readers and flower show judges.

Pic5:

When 8 month old Jayne Newton was plonked down beside this fine onion entry, one can only wonder at what she made of the monster veg.

After a good growing season, the 1997 flower show saw an increased number of exhibits that made the day a great success.