The judges have been out in force in Pilton, checking out the hard work of the village's dedicated allotment growers in the run-up to the Pilton Show.

Experts Christina Ballinger, who owns Somerset Organic Link, Colum Pawson, from Tor Organics, and resident Tony Bailey inspected the allotments recently.

The names of the winner and runner-up remain a closely guarded secret until Pilton Show Day – on Saturday, September 4 - when the winner receives a cup.

Kerry Dodd, from Somerset Organic Link, said the judges were very impressed with the allotments.

She said: " I think that the allotments looked fantastic. They are growing produce using organic guidelines and principles. They should all be proud of themselves."

The blossoming Pilton allotments were opened two years ago, thanks to Glastonbury festival organiser Micahel Eavis, who provided the site for plots next to his John Burns Cottages for local people.

*Meanwhile Somerset Organic Link is offering a £4 pack your own co-op veg bag.

The service is being offered to schools, scouts, WIs and buying groups in the area. For more details, visit www.soliassociation.org or www.foodforlife.org.uk or alternatively visit www.foodcoops.org.