GARDENERS are being urged to enter a competition next month.

The Verwood & District Horticultural Society’s (VDHS) Spring Show is being held at the memorial hall on Saturday, March 16, from 1.30pm.

And the society is keen to welcome entries from people who have never entered anything before.

There are more than 60 different categories to enter, with ‘old timers’ on hand to help with any first-time nerves.

People can show off their spring garden flowers, pot plants, baking skills and handicrafts, with a chance of winning one of the eight £20 vouchers for best exhibits – and entry is free.

“Last year I took part for the first time by entering three matching daffodils in one of the categories and I won first prize,” says Ollie Greensmith, who heads up the society committee.

“It just goes to show that at this time of year, there are lots of spring flowers coming through and it’s pure chance whether you’ve got a bloom that the judge likes.

“Just submit an entry form and bring along what you have.”

If baking and making is more your thing, the homecraft category has six different challenges, ranging from cheese straws and marmalades, to lemon drizzle cake.

For budding artists, there is a category to display paintings with no restrictions on subject or medium.

The society is also looking for any crafters who want to show an item of jewellery or patchwork they have made, or any other handicraft.

The VDHS really wants to encourage local schoolchildren to get involved too.

There are six fun activities which children aged between three and 15 can enter, including designing a wildlife garden, a decorated paper crown for spring, a vase of homemade flowers, an Easter card, or even an animal, bird or dinosaur made of fruit and vegetables.

The VDHS have also launched the ‘Verwood Through The Lens’ amateur photography competition, with a total prize fund of £150 up for grabs.

Winning images will be enlarged and permanently displayed at Verwood Memorial Hall.

For full details of all 60 classes, entry forms or any other information, log on to the VDHS website at verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk, or call Ollie on 01202 827622.

Members of the public can view the show from 1.30pm on March 16.