Flower show set to draw in crowds

Organisers of Shrewsbury's flower show today spoke of their hopes that this year's event would be boosted by people choosing to take their holidays in the UK.

And they said they believed it still represented great value for money and a traditional mix of attractions and entertainment which "cannot be matched anywhere else in the UK".

Final preparations are under way for Shrewsbury Flower Show, which will take place in the town's Quarry on August 14 and 15.

Organised by Shropshire Horticultural Society, this year's event is costing £800,000 to put on.

Mike Carver, show chairman, said: "The lead up to the show has not seen the best of weather, but we are heading for the show with confidence - anticipating that the much talked of public leaning towards 'holidays at home' this year will be reflected in our attendance.

"Set against the cost of one-off outdoor concerts, and the price of seats in theatres and football matches, the 12 hours of continuous entertainment provided by the show is especially good value."

This year's event will include music from three military bands, performances by award-winning choirs and arena entertainment including show jumping.

People will also be able to enjoy demonstrations by television personalities - gardener Chris Beardshaw and chef James Martin.