Pumpkin mania at RHS Rosemoor

By [lchurchill]

HALLOWE'EN came to Torrington early as RHS Rosemoor went pumpkin crazy.

More than 500 visitors came to the Torrington gardens to see the judging of its pumpkin competition, take part in the pumpkin trails, make lanterns and watch pumpkin cookery demonstrations.

Visitors young and old also had a go at drawing pumpkins as part of the National Big Draw event.

The pumpkin competition saw some unique entries including a Cinderella pumpkin and an elderly rocker pumpkin in classes including the heaviest, smallest, ugliest, wackiest and best pumpkin lantern.

Events assistant, Andrea Reed, who organised the event, said: "The day went really well, with visitor numbers up 60% on 2007, despite fairly mixed weather.

"Everyone had lots of fun and the pumpkin shy was a big hit with all ages.

"The restaurant even joined in the pumpkin theme, serving some delicious pumpkin meals including pumpkin risotto and pumpkin cream pie."