Vibrant colours, blossoming plants and huge vegetables were judged as Halstead Horticultural Society staged its Early Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Show.

One hundred and thirty-two exhibits from 25 exhibitors filled the hall with a vibrant palette of colour.

Dahlias, chrysanthemums, gladioli, flowering and non-flowering pot plants together with amazing vegetables, craft and cookery items were laid out for all to see.

Once again the 2nd Halstead Brownies were invited to take part in a special competition to mark 2017 being the Year of the Zinnia by growing a zinnia plant in a pot.

Having risen to the challenge, eight Brownies bring their zinnia plants to the hall for the judges to choose a winner.

The society invited Halstead Mayor, Cllr Shirley Diver, who attended the show and presented the Trophies and medals to the winners.

The afternoon was brought to a close with the drawing of a raffle and sale of flowers and produce kindly donated by the exhibitors.

A host of awards were handed out with Mr D Harris claiming top spot for the best potato collectionand best exhibit of onions.

Linda Owens was awarded the best salad collection, while Jayne Castle awarded the late Stanley Symonds trophy for the best pot plant, as well as the challenge cup, awarded for the highest number of points in the domestic classes.

With the 2nd Halstead Brownies growing an array of zinnia plants, Amy Robb earned top spot followed by Anna Taylor and Sophie Taylor.