SOUTHPORT Flower Show opens its gates tomorrow and more than 70,000 people are expected to enjoy its array of attractions over the next four days.

The show is famed for its spectacular show gardens and millions of blooms on display, but the food village is also becoming a massive attraction for people.

Celebrity chefs Simon Rimmer and Stacie Stewart will join former Atomic Kitten star Liz McClarnon and legendary botanist David Bellamy among the star names at the show.

The theme of this year’s show, in Victoria Park, is “vintage” and this will be seen right throughout the event. Show chief executive David Jackson said: “The show has been an established event in the summer social calendar for decades and there really is something here for the whole family to enjoy. It’s an event that we should all be proud of because people flock to it every year from all over the country and beyond. We’re looking forward to this being our best year yet.”

In the show gardens area, a host of innovative designers and landscapers use their horticultural talents to turn simple plots into dazzling showcases with the hope of leaving visitors bursting with ideas about how to transform their garden.

The centrepiece Grand Floral Marquee features breathtaking displays from some of Britain’s leading growers. Patrons Professor David Bellamy OBE, Professor Stefan Buczacki and Sir Roddy Llewellyn will be on hand with a warm welcome and advice on making the most of your garden.

Visitors may recognise the Vintage Cinema Bus, which has been featured on TV, and is travelling from Devon to take up residency at the show. It will show footage from previous events in its wonderfully unique setting.