Flower power should prevail
Why our show must be saved
difficult times.
But one thing we do expect from our councillors is to leave behind what they inherited. If not improved... then at least maintained.
The sorry saga of Belleisle should have perhaps forewarned us that we can’t even expect that.
But before I resigned... I’d have exhausted every last alternative in saving Ayr Flower Show. And I urge our current elected members to do the same.
But, like most stories - there are two sides to this one.
If SAC is pulling the financial lever on the Flower Show’s gallows – it’s Ayrshire Horticultural Society who supplied the noose for their own neck.
Words like inflexibility, stubbornness, obstinacy and obduracy are flying around like bees in the begonia tent.
And the biggest stumbling block is apparently a proposed move to Ayr Racecourse – South Ayrshire Council’s preferred venue for a host of financial, operational and organisational reasons.
The show organisers are having none of it – they like Rozelle.
The AHS have been accused of not moving with the times – and not planting the seeds for a financially secure future.
And to be honest, much of its format is stuck in it 1960s roots. Do we still need to hand out those cash prizes - £ 2.50 for best cauliflower, £ 3 for best knitted cardigan and £ 3 for the best jar of jam?
You’re not seriously telling me that gardeners, knitters and bakers are all in this for the money? So where do we stand here? On one side, South Ayrshire Council provide the resources and the financial back up to support the greatest Flower Show in Scotland.
On the other, the Ayrshire Horticulural Society provide the experience, knowledge and expertise that makes it the greatest Flower Show in Scotland.
All we need now is prize for “Best Group of Adults Sitting Around a Table and Talking To Each Other”.
I’m publically challenging MSP John Scott to act as independent umpire on this one.
In normal circumstances, it would be an ideal job for our local MP. But Corri Wilson isn’t a normal circumstance.
Ex- farmer John has his feet in the soil and a head for common sense and fair play.
John, get both sides in the same room with you as chairman... and see where it takes us.
And hopefully – it takes us to the 57th Ayr Flower Show... and beyond.