The public is invited to the 16th annual Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Championship on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Frerichs Farm in Warren. Unloading of the biggest pumpkins grown in the area will begin at 10 a.m. with the weigh-off scheduled for 1 p.m. In case of rain, the championship will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Refreshments will be available, a "pumpkin coach" will serve as a shuttle for guests, and corn and hay bale mazes will challenge the skill of attendees. It is recommended that the public bring lawn chairs or blankets on which to sit during the weigh-off.

The always-popular event is sponsored by the Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Growers Association and the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture to determine the largest pumpkin grown in the area each year and to crown an annual local champion. Joe Jutras of North Scituate won last year's local event with a 1,507-pound Rhode Island-grown pumpkin.

Those interested in competing in this year's event or receiving additional information should contact Barbara Frerichs at 245-8245. In case of rain, call Frerichs Farm to confirm the date of the event.