ONE of the largest horticultural shows in the Dengie Peninsula hopes to have a bumper year.

The Southminster Flower Show will be taking place on Saturday, July 21, at the King George V Memorial Field in Southminster.

A spokesman for the event said: “We are working hard to make it bigger and better than ever.

“We have lots of new features this year and hope to attract a big crowd especially from those newly moved to the Dengie.”

There will be three main marquees for handicrafts, horticulture and floral art submitted by competitors.

In the arena, The Mighty Smith, three time winner of the UK Strongest Man will be challenging his audience to tests of strength.

There will also be the Big Sing Soul Choir, Chelmsford crystal majorettes and the crowning of the Show Princess at 2pm.

Chairman Liz Smith said: “I think we’re all excited about it actually.

“We’ve worked hard and there’s a lot of stuff we’ve put on for the day.

“I remember it when I was a child and it was highlight of the year in the village.

“I don’t want it to fold.”

During the afternoon, a Fun Dog Show will be held.

Entries for this can be made on the day at 1pm and there are ten categories.

Main marquees will be open after judging at 2pm after crowning the Show Princess and will close after trophy presentations at 5.30pm.

Around the arena, there will be demonstrations by blacksmith Andy Nicholls using his working forge, Essex Beekeepers, Owls R Us and a display of military vehicles.

There will be refreshments such as a prosecco van, Wibblers Brewery, coffee and cakes from the WI, and burgers courtesy of the Scouts.

A new feature will be a craft market that will showcase artisan skills such as wood turning, driftwood art, fused glass and quilling.

Tickets are £2.50 for adults and under 16s go free.

For details, visit www.southminsterflowershow.org or call 01621 773354.