A COMBE St Nicholas florist has won a top prize at one of the biggest fairs in Europe.

Jackie Nicholls from Ashville Design won the Most Colourful and Artistic Craft Display at The Great Dorset Steam Fair, one of the biggest events in Europe and as seen on BBC’s Countryfile by 6.7 million viewers.

Jackie Nicholls, who was exhibiting in the Rural Craft Marquee, won The Audrey Lander Memorial Silver Salver which was presented to her by the late Mrs Lander’s daughter and grand-daughter.

She was given her prize during the five-day event, which ran from Thursday, August 25 to Bank Holiday Monday, August 29.

Mrs Lander was the founder of the Rural Craft Marquee and it was her wish after she passed away, that every year the presentation would be made in her memory.

Jackie said: “All of a sudden, a lot of people and cameras appeared and a lady said she wanted to have a word with me.

“I blushed and wondered what on earth was going on. Then Mrs Lander’s grand-daughter unexpectedly presented me with this lovely award.

“I’m not often lost for words, but I was so shocked, I didn’t know what to say. But at the same time, I was absolutely thrilled to think that out of the hundreds of lovely displays in the Rural Craft Marquee, this one had been chosen as the winner.”

“An invitation was given immediately by the organisers to return again next year – so that’s a huge thank you and a definite yes.

“For longer than I can remember, my relations have always loved and attended steam fairs. They are very proud of this achievement.

“My family have always been very supportive of steam fairs. My nan used to like nothing more than getting on a traction engine and just getting covered.

“It is something that has been in the family for years. It was an amazing event with more than 200,000 people there. It was just sensational.

“I went completely bright red. I was really, really proud. There were hundreds of craft stalls, I have no idea why I won.

“Sincerest thanks must go to everyone at The Great Dorset Steam Fair who looked after us so well during the event – we really do feel part of your wonderful family and can’t wait for next year.”

For more information contact Jackie on 01460 67795 or 07906 259 683 or visit www.ashvilledesign.co.uk.