VEGETABLES of all shapes and sizes were entered into this years Bolton Leek, Onion and Vegetable show.

From courgettes to cauliflowers to tomatoes and potatoes all were lined up for the judges.

The show, which had 149 entries this year an increase of 15 per cent on last year, had growers competing for four different category titles.

In one of the categories, judge John Woods of the National Vegetable Society, had to find the 'Most Meritorious Vegetable' in the show.

The category was judged on the condition, standard and look of the vegetable and the winner went to cauliflower entry Mary Wilson of Florence Avenue.

Jeff Gibson, of the Association of Bolton Allotment Societies (ABAS), said: "The rise in entries is encouraging particularly considering the difficult year we have had for growing.

"But the produce was of good quality.

"We were also very pleased to have top judge John Woods join us again for the show.

"It was a great community event and that is what it is all about."

On the day, which was held on August 20 at Trinity Methodist Church in Tong Fold, there was also a competition for the best allotment.

Any plot-holder on a Bolton Council-run allotment site was able to enter the competition and entrants were judged on the best large plot, best small plot, new tenant and best site.

Prizes were sponsored by the University of Bolton and a number of allotment societies and individuals and were presented by Professor George Holmes, Vice Chancellor of Bolton University, who also sponsored the show.

The National Allotments Gardens Trust and The Big Bolton Fund also promoted the event.

The new-look show is building on last year’s successful re-introduction of the Onion and Leek Show which is now organised by ABAS.

Mr Gibson, of Little Lever, added: "I am happy that we have been able to get the show back up and running.

"15-20 years ago it was a big big show so it would be good to get it back to that.

"We had good entrants this year from a number of sites across the borough.

"It is all about encouraging people to grow their own food."