A FLORAL scene took over Chipping Sodbury Town Hall over the weekend with the return of the Orchid Spring Festival.


The annual festival, run by the Bristol and West of England Orchid Society, returned to the town on Saturday, March 28.


The event attracted over 250 visitors keen to see the orchid displays, buy plants from nursery stalls and get expert advice.


President of the society, Walter Barker, said: “We had 20 per cent more visitors than last year which we were very happy about.


“This year we introduced a new feature to the festival by offering an information desk for orchid experts to answer questions from the public and talk about growing orchids, which really encouraged people to get involved.


“It was a very good day, and so busy that one nursery sold out completely.


“The society has been running since 1949 and we are one of the oldest in the country, and currently have around 70 members.


"We love to return to the town hall each year as it really is a beautiful venue and we are now encouraging younger people to get involved with our group, come along to a meeting and find out more.”


The society aims to encourage an interest in all aspects of orchid growing and will hold next year’s festival on Saturday, April 16.


To find out more call 01453 822693.