Award-winning flowers attract more than 2,000 to Plant Hunters Fair

As well as the array of plants available straight from the nurseries, the expert growers themselves were on hand to make recommendation at the Plant Hunters Fair at Hodnet Hall Gardens, near Market Drayton, this weekend.

The sun shone for the event held over Saturday and Sunday and gardening enthusiasts were able to get their hands on some rare plants.

Visitors were also able to explore the 60-acre gardens at the hall.

Spokeswoman Jane Jones said: "We had a lovely weekend which was helped by the beautiful weather.

"Sunday was busier due to the bright sunshine but both days were a great success. There was a lovely atmosphere.

"We had a total of 2,262 visitors over Saturday and Sunday and the staff worked very hard to make the event a success. We were almost at capacity on Sunday and all stall holders had a good day.

"The gardeners were amazing, helping everyone to park easily and have access to the gardens. The tea rooms were also very busy – and at one point they sold out of ice cream.

"It was a great success which was made perfect by the weather." The gardens, five miles south of Market Drayton, feature many landscape treasures including lakes and pools and forest trees. The borders are full of shrubs and flowers, plus a kitchen garden.

For more information go to www.hodnethallgardens.org