Memories of the famous pumpkin display as it is forced to close down
The famous Slindon Pumkpin display has stopped running with management citing a lack of funds and Covid-19 as the reason.
The annual spectacle was created by Ralph Upton in 1968 and saw visitors from across the world go to see the artistic displays.
Ralph’s son Robin Upton, 74, said: “Sadly, we haven’t got enough financially to do another year.
“It has been going for 51 years.”
Robin has been running the operation ever since his father died in 2009.
He added: “We just can’t do it with social distancing. We can’t keep up with it.
“It’s sad but what else can we do?
“If [the pandemic] had finished in June we could have done something.”
Mark Ford, who has been working with Robin since 2012, said: “As an environmental artist who works with natural materials and a Slindon resident, creating the display has become a big part of my life and I am delighted I was part of this annual tradition for eight years.
“I particularly enjoyed live pumpkin carving on television, meeting various weather presenters and being filmed for BBC Countryfile and Escape to the Country. I will continue the social media links Facebook, Instagram and the website and am asking that former visitors and supporters could send in their pictures from previous years, especially from the 70s to 90s period for the archive.
“A huge thank you to all who supported Slindon Pumpkins and donated to the charities. The annual event also enriched the village in supporting local shop the Forge, St Richard’s and St Mary’s churches with their pop up Pumpkin Café.
“As a team we are exploring options to continue, possibly at a new location in the village.”
Observer readers shared their fond memories of the event and told of their sadness at its closure.
Tina Charles said: “Thank you all for the fantastic annual displays. Our family has enjoyed many years admiring your fantastic efforts. You will be greatly missed.”
Laura Hardcastle added: “Oh no, that’s incredibly sad. I loved riding past with the horses. However, health is important and thank you so much for all the years you’ve shown love and enjoyment.”
Pat Steward said: “Like others I say thank you for the enjoyment that you have given with your artistic displays.
“I have lots of photos taken of the pumkins over the years.
I always bought a few and enjoyed eating them, too.”
Judy Buckland said: “So sad. I lived in Slindon for several years and always took my children to see the displays even after we moved from there. I remember Mr Ralph very well. Thank you for the wonderful displays over the years.”
Janet Jones said: “Thank you for doing this every year and I completely understand your decision. We will miss the joy your display brought each year but we have lovely memories.”