Prestigious festival win for local lady

Last weekend at the two-day Axe Vale Gardening and Craft Festival at Axminster Showground, Axminster, Devon, award-winning floral designer and tutor Jackie Nicholls from Ashville Design, near Chard in Somerset, won first prize for “The Best Presented Stand in the Craft Marquee 2017”.

L-R Tony Benger, Chairman; Jackie Nicholls, Ashville Design; Katina Styles. Photo: John Nicholls

Jackie was showcasing her artificial flower arrangements.

Professionally qualified judging took place on the first day, Saturday 17th June 2017 with the result announced later on in the afternoon. Jackie was presented with the Craft Cup, a commemorative certificate and a cash prize of £100 by Tony Benger, Festival Chairman and Katina Styles, Craft Marquee Organiser.

Jackie said: “I was completely taken by surprise and blushed! At the time, I was looking out of the marquee taking advantage of a rare breeze in the sweltering heat.

“I turned around and saw three people walking towards me with a large trophy, all smiling and wondered which stand they were heading for. Then there was a round of applause and Chairman Tony presented me with the cup, a certificate and £100.

“I was absolutely thrilled to bits to think that out of all the lovely stands in the craft marquee, the judge chose this one. I’m really passionate about my work and am truly honoured to have received this lovely award.

“To everyone involved in this wonderful charity festival, thank you so much for my prize, and also for inviting me back next year. I look forward to seeing you all then, if not before.”

For details of events and upcoming workshops visit www.ashvilledesign.co.uk or call Jackie on 01460 67795 or 07906 259 683.