Flower show runs into weekend for first time (From Somerset County Gazette)

Flower show runs into weekend for first time

10:35am Monday 26th March 2007

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THE programme of events for this summer's Taunton Flower Show - which takes in the weekend for the first time - has been released by the organisers.

They hope the 141-year-old event, in Vivary Park on Friday and Saturday, August 3 and 4, will attract more families and people unable to attend during the week.

A Ready, Steady, Garden competition is to be filmed by downtoearth productions featuring UKTV's Gardens Unplugged presenter Simon Harrison-Knibbs; garden sculptures will be displayed by Fine Arts Students from Somerset College; and a Farmers' Market will showcase local produce to taste and take away.

The Floral Tent will feature horticultural exhibitors from across the country, including some who have shown at Chelsea.

An increase in the number of show gardens aims to inspire green-fingered gardeners of all ages along with hundreds of classes for competition entrants.

A Children's Zone is being introduced, while military, Scout and jazz musicians will perform.

The Seeds of Knowledge Tent will provide answers to gardeners' questions via a Garden Doctors Panel and lectures.

The arena entertainment includes Jez Avery's mountain and motorbike stunt performances, Chariots of Fire display team and The Eagle and Vulture Show.

More than 100 traders and craft stands will be in place to tantalise and tempt the thousands who visit Taunton's longest-running summer show.

Chairman Bob Homeshaw said: "The bold decision to move the show to a weekend would appear to have paid off before we begin.

"New features and fresh traders have combined to ensure that the show remains at the forefront of Taunton's summer celebrations.

"As the arrival of spring entices many gardeners out of their winter quarters, I hope many amateur growers will prepare for and enter the various competitions that enable them to be part of the very special local event that is Taunton Flower Show.

"There are dozens of certificates and cups and nearly £4,000 in financial prizes to be won."

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