Bluebells could bloom earlier due to mild weather

Hole Park has been open to the public since 1928

The owner of a historic park in Kent says its bluebells might bloom earlier than in previous years due to unseasonal mild weather.

Edward Barham, owner of Hole Park Gardens in Rolvenden, said he "wouldn't be surprised" if the bluebells bloomed earlier this year.

Mr Barham said in 2018 the first bluebells at the park were recorded on 6 April, however this year he spotted a rogue bluebell on Thursday.

The owner said between 8,000 and 10,000 people visit the park's Bluebell Spectacular, which takes place each year between April and May.

A very early bluebell, spotted at Hole Park Gardens

Hole Park Gardens has been open to the public since 1928.

Thousands of people visit each year, with many "specifically coming to see the bluebells", said Mr Barham.

He said he loved the flowers because "they’re wild, they cannot be replicated".

Although the one rogue bluebell "doesn't make a show," Mr Barham said they are "sensitive plants" which he expects to react to the milder weather this year.

Mr Barham said he thinks the blooms would respond to climate change.

"If it's not going to be so cold and frosty during the winter, then then they'll come a little bit earlier to reflect that."

The National Trust has previously said the loss of predictable weather patterns could cause "chaos" for nature in the UK.

Those who hope to see the bluebells can check bloom rates on the park's bluebell barometer.

The common bluebell is a protected species in the UK.