The Melplash Agricultural Society is once again searching for the best gardens and allotment in the area.  

Every type and size of garden can be entered within a 12-mile radius of Melplash Village Church, which includes the Bridport area, with prizes for the best large, medium, small garden and best allotment as well as a prize for the overall winner.

The only stipulation is that the garden is designed and made by the entrant. If part-time help is employed, it should be for no more than eight hours per week. 

Lucy Hart, society secretary, said: "The garden and allotment competition is the first competition that the Society runs each year and is always a favourite. 

"Every year the judges are extremely impressed with the standard and feel very privileged to have the opportunity to visit the gardens and allotments, and to be shown around by the gardener.   

"It really is a rare opportunity for local gardeners to get their hard work recognised!"

The competition is open to all residents within a 12-mile radius of Melplash Village Church and is sponsored by Bridport- ased William James & Co and Chedington Compost.

There is no entry fee and application forms are available to download from www.melplashshow.co.uk

Entries close on June 12.

The criteria to be judged is: 

• Overall condition of the garden or allotment
• All around interest/cropping schemes
• Quality of crops, flowers, plants
• Originality of layout and planting
• Ingenuity in overcoming local problems
• Any special features

Judging takes place over two days on June 20 and 21 and the winners of each category will be presented with their cups and prizes at the Melplash Agricultural Show in Bridport on Thursday, August 24.