MARK Bottoms proved three is a lucky number as he was crowned Best in Show winner for the third time in a row at this year’s St Ives Produce Show.

There were more than 600 entries at Saturday’s show but only the cream of the crop were crowned champions in the 12 categories, including Mr Bottoms who is now a three-time Holmes Trophy winner after gaining the most points in the show.

He also won the home brewing prize – an accolade Mr Bottoms has won ever since the show, which dates back to 1876, was brought back to life in 2010.

St Ives town councillors Ian Dobson and Jonathan Salt were on hand to give out the awards, presenting former council colleague Jennifer Coville with the Waitrose prize, and £50 of vouchers, for best group of vegetables and fruit.

Giuseppe Videtta impressed with his fruit and vegetables, winning both categories, and was awarded the Royal Horticultural Society Banksian Medal for most points in the fruit and vegetable sections.

Christine Curtis was presented the Billman Rosebowl for the best flowers, herbs and plants, Norma Head won the preserves and produce section, Steph Humes was crowned Queen of the town’s bakers and Angharad Pugh produced the best arts and crafts.

Izzy Shores won the children’s prize and Robin Bletsoe won the photography category.

John McKinnie, one of the organisers, said: “This year’s show again exceeded all expectations, with a record number of entrants displaying 617 magnificent exhibits. Hundreds of visitors flooded into the Corn Exchange in the afternoon, many appreciating the information about the show’s history and the wonderful homemade cakes for sale.”