Floral Special for anniversary (From Gazette Series)

Floral Special for anniversary

A GOLDEN anniversary will be celebrated with a floral spectacular at Dyrham Park, the National Trust property near Bath.

During five days from September 9 to September 13, the estate hosts Flowerpieces, as part of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the South West area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies.

The association raises a large amount of money for various charities.

The South West area includes the whole of Somerset, the Bristol area as far as Portishead and a large part of Wiltshire extending to Swindon in the east.

A total of 98 exhibits, from both clubs and individuals, will be on display, creations that have been inspired by the country mansion, its church and grounds.

One piece of work replicates a painting hanging at Dyrham Park using pressed dried flowers and another highlights a four poster bed in the house.

A wide variety of plants will be featured, including lichen.

Visitors will be able to admire all arrangements as they explore the stately home, St Peter's Church and the extensive grounds.

Janet Warden, of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies, said: "This will be no ordinary flower festival but an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary styles.

"Dyrham Park will provide a fabulous backdrop for the inspirational work that our members are producing for this special occasion."

The festival has involved two years of planning by a talented design teamled by Sue Phillips of Yatton Keynell near Chippenham.

Wendy Stott, property manager at Dyrham Park, said: "Dyrham is delighted to host the 50th anniversary celebrations.

"Dyrham has inspired many people over the last 300 years and has a strong link with flowers, as anyone who has been to our annual Tulipomania will have witnessed.

"We will be offering special opening arrangements during the five days of the festival and we look forward to seeing the results of this unique collaboration."

For the duration of the exhibition, Dyrham Park will only be open for people attending the exhibition. Entry is by ticket only. To book advanced tickets, contact the National Trust box office on 0870 240 4068.