THE man who helped Taunton Flower Show survive two storms in his first two years at the helm - one a dispute among members, the other meteorological - has stepped down.

John Rudge, senior partner at Summerhayes & Co accountants, has resigned as chairman of show organisers Taunton Deane Horticultural and Floricultural Society after seven years.

During his spell, the Vivary Park event has grown successfully - despite last summer's intense heat, heavy rainstorms the previous year and flooding which caused the last-minute cancellation in 1997.

Mr Rudge informed committee members of his decision due to family pressures at the recent annual general meeting.

His successor is Lt Col Bob Homeshaw, of the Wiveliscombe Horticultural Society and Garden Club.