Contest runs in families

A traditionalL Bride of the Year contest in Central Southland is starting to develop generational links as family members of the original entrants participate in the event.

The contest, in its 28th year, is organised by Rural Women New Zealand and is attracting the daughters and daughters-in-law of the original entrants, and the granddaughters of organisers.

Lorna Anderson, of Drummond, is still helping organise the event she began with the then Women' Division in 1983.

"It is a marvellous fundraiser," she said.

"And we love it, love organising it, love the night itself, seeing Southland's beautiful brides of the past year and some of their bridesmaids, too."

Not all are Southlanders, of course; brides from elsewhere who have come to live here and others from here married and living somewhere else.

Mrs Anderson said one of last year's northern brides was flying from Auckland to spend next weekend with her Winton family and take part in the show.

"Girls love being the bride again," Mrs Anderson said.

"It is a lovely night for everyone. Including those mothers of the bride and bridegroom who can wear their special outfit again, too."

There are 30 brides registered for the event, and the marriage must have taken place in the past 12 months.But more could turn up, she said.

"We are still taking names." Tickets will be on sale on the night of the event next Monday from 7 at the Memorial Hall in Winton.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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