16 Oct 09: Ipswich prize pumpkins

16th October 2009

Ipswich’s green-fingered residents have rolled up their sleeves to grow pumpkins as part of a sponsored event to raise funds for local charity East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

The event, which has been organised by John Greenacre of The Ipswich Allotment Holders Association, involves growers obtaining sponsorship or making a donation for their prize-pumpkins to help children with life-threatening conditions and complex healthcare needs across East Anglia.

On Saturday 17th October about 100 pumpkin growers will meet at Ransome Sports and Social Club in Sidegate Avenue to have their prize veg weighed and judged.

Prizes will be awarded to the heaviest pumpkin and the best-decorated pumpkin in the following categories: three to six year-olds, six to 16-year-old and adults.

Mr Greenacre said: "We have run the pumpkin event for a number of years and it’s a great way for growers to show off their produce and raise funds form a good cause.

"Last year’s winning pumpkin weighed 89.5 kilos so there is a tough weight to beat this year!"

The event takes place between 9.30am and 12.30pm, and as well as pumpkin weighing and judging there will also be a vegetable stall with proceeds also going to EACH.