WINSFORD resident Rachel Manning became the first woman ever to win the Dempster Challenge Cup for best plot at the Over Allotments Open Day.

The cup is the oldest community award still made by Winsford Town Council. In its 86-year history, all previous winners have been men.

“The judges were extremely impressed with the quality and variety of produce on Rachel’s plot and felt that it was a perfect example of how an allotment should be cultivated and maintained,” said Mayor of Winsford, Clr Steve Smith.

Runners-up awards were made to: Denise Downie, Karl Gannnon, Peter and Sue O’Brien and highly commended to David and Iris Jenkinson.

Hebden Green Community School was awarded the Town Mayor’s Shield for Best Scarecrow, for their Paralympic-themed creation, Blade Runner.

Runners-up awards made to: Over St John’s, and St Chad’s Primary School.