From Chelsea to Chorley – tickets now on sale for new flower show

PEOPLE are being encouraged to make history and take part in Chorley’s first ever flower show to be held in the historic grounds of Astley Hall and Park.

Thousands of people are expected to flock to the inaugural event, which will feature the unveiling of Chorley’s award-winning exhibit, ‘The Evaders’ Garden’, from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

A top line up of gardening and horticultural entertainment is planned for the Chorley Council-run show, which is being sponsored by Botany Bay, with people urged to buy their tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council, said: “We’ve built a brilliant reputation in Chorley for our floral displays and there is a real appetite for a show of this type as we build Chorley into one of the up and coming visitor destinations in the North West.
“We’ve worked carefully with horticultural organisations to ensure that the show focuses on the floral displays and gardening and it’s an exciting new show set in a new location that will really make for a fantastic day out.

“We’ve managed to attract some of the top exhibitors in the country and judging by the attention it received on national television at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show it will be a unique opportunity to see The Evaders’ Garden unveiled in its permanent home and hear the tale behind it from the designer.”

The two-day event, held on 1 and 2 August in Astley Park between 10am and 5pm, will include:

A professional exhibitors’ marquee featuring gold-medal winning entrants from some of the country’s biggest shows

A chance to see Chorley’s award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show exhibit ‘The Evaders’ Garden’, which will be unveiled to the public at the show

• Meet celebrity gardeners who will be answering your questions
• Horticultural trade stands offering the best quality in garden products
• An amateur marquee incorporating flower and pot plant classes and floral art
• Take a tour of the historic Astley Hall, which will be decked out with floral decorations
• Enjoy a picnic on the beautiful lawns with plenty of entertainment throughout the day including a Victorian fairground and children’s entertainment stage

“Everything is coming together for the show and work will start on building The Evaders’ Garden in the park in the coming weeks,” said Councillor Bradley.

“There will also be plenty of entertainment for the kids so whether you’re a really keen gardener, looking for some inspiration or just want to see some of the top exhibitors in the country right on your doorstep then make sure you put the date in your diary.

“Tickets are now on sale priced £4 adults, £2 children and £10 for a family ticket – this offers great value with it being our first show and I’d urge people to buy them in advance so you don’t miss out.

“If you’d like more information visit chorley.gov.uk, where you can buy your tickets online, or contact the council on 01257 515151.”

The area around the lodge and Astley Hall will be closed off from Friday 31 July until Monday 3 August but access will be maintained so people can still get from Hallgate to the town centre at all times.

Offline ticket sales will be launched in July – with a park and ride service operating from Botany Bay.

ENDS

Pic caption: The Evaders’ Garden, which won a silver gilt at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the Artisan section

For further information, contact Communications Manager Andrew Daniels on 01257 515265.