The 23rd Flower Show At Verteuil

Last weekend saw the 23rd Flower Festival, again held in the splendid grounds of the château of Verteuil Sur Charente, 6kms from Ruffec. This year’s theme was against ‘Food Wastage’. Yet again (for the flower show) somebody upstairs decided that the weather this weekend in the Charente would be somewhat ‘changeable’ to say the least. One of the organisers, Jérôme Moreau, admitted that it had been one of the hardest to put on due to the inclement weather leading up to the event. (Soggy fields/paths & windy conditions to deal with when erecting marquees etc). I can assure all our house hunters that this is exceptional for this time of year.

This aside, the weather did not deter the public in coming. The cost was reasonable at 3.50€ for adults and free for children and was valid for both days (as long as you did not shower and wash the ink stamp off your hand). Saturday witnessed 4 seasons in one day whereas Sunday finally saw bright sunshine after a dull start to the day, maybe just the two seasons. It was hard not to feel sorry for the 90 cold and wet stall-holders who were there all weekend. Not only could you stroll around the stalls, but you could get up ‘close and personal’ with the château itself and its wonderful grounds.

For the young budding gardeners there were vegetable carving and pony rides available. Despite entrants and sales down by about 30% the show was a success. Looking forward to a hot and sunny flower show in May 2015.