IT has survived a drought, scarlet fever and a world war, but a horticultural society is still going strong and this year will be celebrating its hundredth show.

The club began 110 years ago and was created through donations from local firms, with just two categories in the first show.

Held at Birch Hall in conjunction with the Donkey Derby, Copted Hall loaned palms and ferns for decoration at the events.

For a long time there were two shows a year which included chrysanthemums and dahlias and exhibits from the Women's Institute.

But in 1900 scarlet fever hit the village and the show had to be postponed with only exhibitors allowed in the tent to bring their entries.

During the First World War there were no shows or recorded meeting and in 1921 it was cancelled because of the drought.

Over the years the society has supported local groups, helping to supply tools to a gardening club and working with the school to keep in touch with modern trends in handicraft.

In 1981 Gardeners Question Time was recorded in the Village Hall and Classic FM Gardening Forum in 1995.

Club secretary Jane Turner said: "Unfortunately many horticultural societies in our area have closed or no longer hold shows and although we will have to cease trading (due to lack of demand) we are pleased to see more show entries from the increased number of allotment holders who also enter our pumpkin competition held in October."

This years event on July 25 promises to be one of the best yet with a grand scarecrow competition, and entries including handicraft, fruit, flowers, cookery and photography.

Doors open at 2.15pm in Theydon Bois Village Hall and entry is free.

There will be an auction of produce at 4.30pm.