The modern Tarrant Monkton & Launceston Flower Show was started in 1973 by the local branch of the Women’s Institute. A copy of an article in the Western Gazette describing the first show is included below.
Since 1973, with one exception, the show has been held every August in the Village Hall. In 1976, the show was cancelled due to the severe drought.
In 1979, the show was taken over from the WI by a committee of villagers and a Chairman was appointed. The first meeting of the Committee was held in Gard’s Farm (now The Old Farmhouse), Tarrant Monkton.
The following people have been Chairman of the village Flower Show Committee.
1973 Mrs Frances Ellis 1987 Mrs June Davey
1975 Mr Ernie Hull 1988 Mr Derek Pearson
1976 Mr J Drake 2002 Mrs Vicky Gumm
1977 Mr Mel Clarke 2009 Mrs Pamela Morrison
1979 Mr Cecil Ellis October 2015 – Mrs Gay Bentley & Mrs Rosemary Hempseed
In 1980, a “bring and buy” Plant Sale was started. This sale has been held every year in May in the Village Hall.
In 2006, 2009 and 2013 the Flower Show Committee organised an “Open Gardens” event. A copy of the 2013 “Open Gardens” guide is included elsewhere on this web site.
