Gardeners in Ormskirk prepare for the Southport Flower Show

Aug 20 2009 by Janine Yaqoob, Ormskirk Advertiser

GARDENERS in Ormskirk are gearing up for this year’s Southport Flower Show.

The highlight of the national horticultural calendar will be launching at Southport’s Victoria Park today and will run until Sunday, August 23.

King of the Jungle, Christopher Biggins, will officially declare the 80th annual Flower Show open at 10am on the first of the four days, as gardeners and growers from across the area attempt to wow the judges in various competition categories.

More than one million blooms will be showcased across the 34 acre park and celebrity gardeners will be on hand offering hints and tips and you can taste some of the region's finest food, with creative advice at the many cookery demonstrations.

Gardeners from West Lancashire have fared well at the show over the past years.

Last year Peter Tinsley from Halsall created history by becoming the first ever entrant to retain the best in show trophy.

Peter, of Small Lane North, was award a large gold medal and five trophies including the Brookhouse Gold Perpetual Challenge Trophy for best in show.

The show turned into an award spree for the Iddon family from Hesketh last year after scooping five medals.

Graeme Iddon won a gold for his chrysanthemums, while sister Jacqueline went one better by winning a large gold for her hardy plants display.

Graeme also won a silver gilt award, while son Sam won a gold award and Robert won a silver gilt trophy.

A day ticket for the Flower Show on the gate is priced at £18 for adults and £16 for concessions.

Entry after 3.30pm is charged at £5.

For further information please visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk or call 0844 847 1555.