The Cornwall Garden Society’s 2017 Spring Flower Show at Boconnoc House near Lostwithiel promises to be bigger, better – and dryer – than ever before.

Peter Gilmore, who has taken over the reins as this year’s show director, said it was the south west’s “first major horticultural showcase of the year.”

He said: “With a new layout, larger marquees with indoor seating areas, and much more to see, do and enjoy, this celebration of Cornwall’s rich garden heritage will be even more popular as a day out for all the family.”

As well as the riot of colour afforded by the spectacular displays of camellias, magnolias, daffodils and rhododendrons in the competitive horticultural classes, the event also offers stunning show gardens; more than 110 horticultural trade stands; floral art and photography competitions; lectures and Gardeners’ Questions in Boconnoc House, and the best of Cornish food and drink. For children, the Reptile & Raptor Roadshow will provide animal encounters and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Campaign for School Gardening, the Cornwall Red Squirrel Project and Perennial Harvest will contribute lots of fun things to do and make in a dedicated marquee.

Peter added: “We have invested in additional infrastructure this year to ensure that mud will be minimised if we find ourselves at the mercy of April showers.

“With more to see, do, eat and drink under canvas, the sun will shine, whatever the weather is doing outside.”

For advance bookings, telephone the Cornish Riviera Box Office on 01726 879500, visit crbo.co.uk/CGSSpringShow or drop into your local tourist information centre.

The show will be at Boconnoc House on April 1 and 2. Tickets cost £7.50 in advance or £9.50 - cash only - on the gate, or £5.50 in advance or £7.50 on the gate for CGS members. Under 16s are free and dogs on leads are welcome.

The CGS is a charity that exists to encourage and improve the science, art and practice of horticulture in all its branches; share knowledge about gardening and Cornwall’s rich garden heritage, and conserve the county’s natural environment. The society is affiliated to The Royal Horticultural Society and its patron is HRH The Prince of Wales.