Flower show 'cautiously confident' over future

The organisers of the UK's oldest flower show remain "cautiously confident" over the future of the event, after experiencing big losses in the last couple of years.

Returning for its 193rd annual event, Taunton Flower Show takes place in Vivary Park on 2-3 August.

Ticket sales for last year's show were affected by high winds and wet conditions, with Amber weather warnings in place courtesy of Storm Antoni.

Organisers said they have had to raise ticket prices as a result of increasing costs and the effect of Covid-19 on its financial reserves.

Ticket prices have been increased for this year's Taunton Flower Show

The Taunton Flower Show was first held in 1831, initially established in the Assembly Rooms on the Parade.

It was reportedly set up by the gentlemen of the area to show off the expertise of their gardeners, encouraging premium horticulture by growing the best specimens of flowers, fruit and vegetables.

The show later moved to Vivary Park in June and September of 1851, where it is still held today.

"We are cautiously confident as to the continuation of the show for years to come," said show manager, Becky Fox.

"But that can only happen with the support of the public, traders, and our wonderful volunteers who make the show happen each year."

Becky Fox says the weather for this year's event was looking more promising

Ms Fox said the event had suffered a huge financial blow in the last few years, and had to make provisions in order to survive.

"We entered planning for the show this year under great trepidation as our finances had been negatively affected by both the Covid-19 pandemic and the poor weather at last year's show.

"Adding to this, the cost of living crisis has affected all of the businesses that we use and raised our costs hugely.

"As such, we had to make a difficult decision to increase our ticket prices but with lower rates offered throughout the year for those planning ahead."

However, Ms Fox added she remained hopeful for the future, as ticket pre-sales had boomed and the warmer weather had arrived just in time for this year's event.

This year the show will play host to parachute games, an "extreme bike battle" and a rock choir.