Splash of colour lifts gardeners

Jul 20 2007 by Alan Weston, Liverpool Daily Post

Splash of colour lifts gardeners

THOUSANDS of enthusiasts descended on the Royal Horticultural Society Flower Show at Tatton Park for the highlight of the North-west’s gardening calendar.

At the heart of the Cheshire spectacular are 47 show gardens, where displays include herb gardens, eco-gardens, exotic gardens, and even a garden to celebrate 50 years of space exploration.

The sun shone yesterday, but the ground was still sodden from earlier downpours.

Among the celebrities there were ex-Emmerdale actress Sheree Murphy, wife of Liverpool FC striker Harry Kewell, who was filming a feature for the BBC’s ONE Show.

Others visiting the 29-acre showground included Warrington-born actor Pete Postlethwaite.

This year’s show sees a wide range of props and artefacts being used to bring to life some of the garden and flower bed designs.

A number of gardens have been inspired by sounds and instruments, with Clive Scott’s Rhythm in Blues garden designed for a professional musician.

Andy Walker’s Back to Back garden has been inspired by the Mediterranean, the focal point being a large mosaic patio depicting a Spanish guitar.

A number of charities are also raising awareness for their cause by exhibiting gardens at this year’s show.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest initiatives ever undertaken to boost Cheshire’s visitor economy was unveiled at Tatton Park.

Cheshire’s Year of Gardens 08 is expected to attract an additional 300,000 visitors, generate an economic impact of £15m, and further boost Cheshire’s reputation as an international destination.

The RHS Flower Show continues until Sunday.

alanweston