SOUTHPORT burst into bloom this morning when the town’s annual flower show opened its doors to eager spectators.

Exhibitors from across the country have been preparing for weeks ahead of the 81st Southport Flower Show and the atmosphere was electric as the proceedings got under way.

Actress Suranne Jones, formerly of Coronation Street, will officially pronounce the show open at noon today, as the crowds weave their way through over a million blooms that fill the Victoria Park setting.

David Jackson, Chief Executive of the Southport Flower Show, told the Daily Post: “It is a fantastic year for the show, the feedback we have been getting from some people has been incredibly positive.

“With the new Grand Floral Marquee, people can walk past and see the fabulous floral displays and everyone has been saying how much of a feature that is.

“The quality is excellent as always – the gardeners seem to excel themselves each year and some have been working until after midnight for weeks. All the exhibitors have been getting really excited and that energy has been infectious.”

As well as the floral attractions, this year’s flower show, which runs until Sunday, boasts a brand new food village and book festival, along with 250 trade stands.

Celebrity gardeners David Bellamy and Stefan Buczacki are at the festival today giving members of the public expert tips. Diarmuid Gavin and Roddy Llewellyn are set to make appearances over the weekend.