
Chorley will be blooming with displays from the most talented exhibitors in the country as the borough launches its first ever flower show in the historic grounds of Astley Park.
The town will become a riot of colour with dazzling dahlias and brilliant bonsais ready to wow thousands of people on Saturday and Sunday 1 and 2 August.
A top line up of gardening and horticultural entertainment is planned for the Chorley Council-run show, which is being sponsored by Botany Bay, and will see the unveiling of Chorley’s award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show exhibit ‘The Evaders’ Garden’.
Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council, said: “We’re really excited by the flower show and we can’t wait to see all the exhibits as the set up starts to take place.
“Astley Park is a glorious setting and it promises to be a great day out for people of all ages and it will be the perfect place to come and get some inspiration and ideas for your garden at home.
“We’ve had fantastic turnouts at our summer events and I’d urge everyone to come and support the flower show so we can turn it into an annual event that will help to put Chorley on the map.”
The two-day event, held on 1 and 2 August in Astley Park, 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
Michelle Scott, Marketing Manager of event sponsors Botany Bay, said everyone was really looking forward to the inaugural event.
“It’s a privilege to be involved in a new and prestigious event for the borough and we can’t wait to see the fantastic displays, which you don’t normally get to see unless you go to one of the big shows,” said Michelle.
“We’d encourage everyone to come along and enjoy themselves and we’re providing a free park and ride service from Botany Bay that will make it convenient for people attending the show.
“Let’s hope the sun shines and we get a glorious weekend that showcases Chorley to the rest of the country – don’t forget you can get your tickets from our Botany Bay Garden Centre too.”
Tickets are now on sale priced £4 adults, £2 children and £10 for a family ticket – this offers great value with it being the first show and we would urge people to buy them in advance so you don’t miss out.
If you would 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.

