AN historic community event which dates back to the 19th Century is set to return this weekend.

The Four Colnes Show is set to celebrate its 140th anniversary when it goes ahead this weekend.

Founded by the Four Colnes Horticultural Society, the show was first organised in the same year the society was formed, back in 1882.

After all this time, society chairman Peter Grimshaw says the group is “still alive and well".

Now, on Saturday, August 20, the society will celebrate its 140th birthday with the Four Colnes Show at the Earls Colne Recreation Club.

The show offers a range of classes from vegetables to a children’s colouring competition.

There are flower arrangements and crafts produced by villagers, cash prizes and a range of trophies.

Mr Grimshaw said: “This year we have had low rainfall and growing plants in these conditions have been a challenge so you have a very good chance of being a winner if you have a plant that looks the way it should.

“There really has never been a better year to be a successful horticulturist.

“That tired-looking courgette may be a winner.

“Prize money is paid for all winning exhibits and will amount to around £400.

“This obviously covers many exhibit sections – but a win is a win.

“Alongside the exhibition, there are ice cream vans, burger vans, bouncy castles and stalls providing advice on services, craft sales and owl handling to name but a few."

The recreation club bar will be open.

The show starts at 1pm and admission is free.