Show Rules

All Competitors must conform to these rules, and any infringement may result in disqualification. If any query arises which is not dealt with in these rules, the decision of the Committee will be final.

  1. Eligibility of exhibitors. All exhibitors must be current members of Ditchling Horticultural Society. This rule does not apply to children’s classes which are open to any child resident in Ditching or attending St Margaret’s School. Children’s ages at the date of the Spring Show will apply to Summer and Autumn Shows. Children may also enter adult classes.
  2. Entry fees. Unless otherwise stated in the schedule, the entry fee is 20p per class. There is no entry fee for children’s classes.
  3. Exhibits must be the property of the exhibitor and must have been grown from seed by the exhibitor or have been in their possession/ cared for by them for at least two months prior to the date of the show. This rule does not apply to floral art classes, where exhibitors are allowed to use plant material not grown by themselves. (However please note that the Winter Trophy is an exception.)
  4. Number of entries. Each exhibitor may only make one entry in a class.
    Only one person per household may exhibit in any class with produce from the same garden / allotment, unless the exhibit is entered in joint names. (This rule does not apply to Floral Art, Cookery, Handicraft, Art or Photography classes.
  5. Layout of exhibits. The Show Stewards may direct the placing of exhibits. No exhibitors or their representatives shall touch, or in any way attempt to move, other exhibits. Any staging difficulties will be dealt with by the Show Stewards.
  6. Labelling of exhibits. When two or more exhibits are otherwise equal in value, preference will be given to those distinctly and correctly named.
  7. Exhibits not according to schedule. An exhibit that does not conform to the wording of the schedule will be disqualified. The judge will write ‘Not according to schedule’ on the card, with a note of why it is so marked.
  8. The decisions of the judges as to the relevant merits of exhibits shall be final. Any other protest or objection must be made in writing within one hour of the opening of the show and handed to the Secretary or Show Secretary.
  9. Prizes: In floral art classes are: first prize £2, second prize £1.50, third prize £1. In all other classes the exhibit taking first prize in a class will be awarded a rosette. Any prize may be withheld by the Judges if the exhibits are considered unworthy of the prize offered.
  10. Removal of exhibits. After judging has taken place no exhibit may be altered or removed until the end of the show.
  11. Liability for loss. All exhibits, personal property etc. will be at the risk of the exhibitors. The Show committee will take every precaution against damage to exhibits & containers, but will not be liable for compensation for any loss or damage