THE organisers of Poundstock’s annual craft fair and pumpkin festival are preparing for a bumper entry in the heaviest pumpkin competition.

Graham Jones, who is organising the competition that will take place from October 22 to 23, said that the rumours in the area are that this year’s pumpkin crop is bigger than average.

Last year’s winner weighed 88lb, but although the early spring weather in 2016 was not good, things improved during the summer and was a lot kinder for the important growing phase.

Peter Roberts, a grower from Morwenstow, wasn’t able to compete in 2015 because a fire in his polytunnel put paid to what was a potential champion pumpkin.

However, this year he is hoping to regain the cup and possibly break his record of over 600lb.

As well as a prize and cup for the heaviest pumpkin, there are also prizes for the best decorated pumpkin, with categories for children and adults.

Graham said: “Obviously, the heaviest must have been grown by the exhibitor, but we allow shop-bought ones to be used for the decorated classes. All entries must be in by 11am on the Saturday morning, and help will be available to move any really heavy pumpkins.”

The pumpkin competitions form part of the Craft and Food Fair held in Poundstock Gildhouse and church on Saturday, October 22 to Sunday, October 23. These lovely old buildings form a perfect backdrop for a celebration of the products of local craftsmen and women.

As ever, the fair welcomes a wide range of local craftspeople, and this year there are several new stall holders with goods ranging from handmade clothes to sculptures in wood and jewellery from sea tumbled glass.

Graham added: “As always, the craft and food fair gives everyone an ideal opportunity to start your Christmas shopping early and even watch as some of the objects are made.”