GARDENERS of all ages put their green fingers to work to create some stunning displays at this year’s Arley Garden Festival.

In the Schools’ Garden Challenge toddlers through to primary school pupils designed and planted gardens inspired by everything from Harry Potter to Beatrix Potter.

While in the floral marquee, experienced plantsmen received gold medals for their colourful creations.

“We think of the festival as a celebration of horticulture and one that involves children as well as adults,” said event organiser Helen Begent.

“It’s something visitors seem to really enjoy and an aspect of the show that makes it a lot of fun for families.”

The Russett School in Weaverham won first prize in the Schools’ Garden Competition. A garden created by Sandy Lane Nursery and Forest School was also popular with visitors who were charmed by its theme of ‘outdoor kitchen’.

Whereas for the children this was probably their first time creating a show garden, there were some familiar faces in the floral marquee.

Donald Wright, of D and A Wright in Wincham, collected a gold medal for his display of hanging basket and patio plants.

There were gold medals for James Comish from Formby and the Eckford Sweet Pea Society of Wem who were celebrating their 30th anniversary.

Lady Ashbrook also awarded a prize in her name to Jane Whalley of Rectory Garden Plants, a third generation nursery based in Congleton.

“Once again we were thrilled with the standard of the displays in the floral marquee and impressed with the amount of hard work that went into them,” said Helen.

Elsewhere at the garden festival experts solved the public’s gardening puzzles in the question time marquee and talks were given by Lord Ashbrook, Arley’s head gardener Gordon Baillie and Sue Beesley of Bluebell Cottage Gardens and Nurseries.

There was also a soundtrack provided by The Wabash Jazzmen, Lymm Concert Band and Street Jazz.

“There was a lovely festival atmosphere this year and we were helped massively by the good weather,” said Helen.