At the time in which Best in Show was written, the competition was amateur. There were no sponsors or grants from seed companies but yet the Show was a highlight in the year. Most people still gardened after being asked to Dig for Victory during the war years and it was only the most brass necked that allowed their garden to become full of weeds or turned it into a paved or gravelled yard. My father didn't exhibit and was allowed to visit the various greenhouses and gardens as a consultant and, naturally, I was taken along to share the fun and the tea and cake a visit deserved. I still visit the village at flower show time but you'll note the title is not in capitals and every year or so, another school friend can't come. Despite everything, the Earl and the Countess still come to open the Show and maintain the tradition.
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