BRITAIN'S flower show calendar is due to open with a flourish.

Harrogate Spring Show, from April 24 to 27, is the first nationally-recognised horticultural event of the year.

Since moving from the town's Valley Gardens to the Great Yorkshire Showground several years ago, it has become one of the biggest shows in the country.

More than 100 horticultural nurseries have signed up for the show, known for magnificent blooms, floristry and flower arranging, as well as rural arts and crafts.

BBC Radio 4 Gardeners Question Time is being recorded on the opening day, Thursday, April 24.

Tickets can be pre-booked by noon on April 15 to secure a £2 discount, Call the ticket hotline on 0870 758 3333, or book online at www.flowershow.org.uK