Bobaul was the first sunflower to show its pretty yellow face in the Bull-Knox Sunflower Contest 2017. Bears followed, revealing a beautiful orangey red flower.

As gorgeous as they are, the early bloomers may have peaked too soon (putting their energy into displaying their flowers rather than reaching for the sky) to be able to catch the tallest competitors. However, they are both still in with a chance of winning the new award for 2017: The Indie Award for the prettiest flower.

With 10 days to go the tallest flower is hard to call with Em&Em, Shmelling, Pears and Gibbles all striving towards the sun.

Sad news for Steclaire who, although the plant still looks healthy, was found to be headless. The perpetrator of this horrific attack has not been found but a trail of slime was found on the upper leaves. I’m not sure if it’s scientifically possible but I’m rooting (sorry about the pun) for Steclaire to grow a new head and get back in the race.

The official judging takes place on 5th August 2017.