Shrewsbury Flower Show - in pictures

Shrewsbury Flower Show chiefs said they were hopeful of a good turnout today on the final day of the 123rd floral extravaganza despite gloomy expectations of another washout.

Officials said visitor numbers were only "slightly"down on the first day yesterday compared to last year's event although they added that thousands still braved the rain to pack through the gates.

David Battisby, marketing chairman of the show, said many people came to the show early but the heavy downpours in the afternoon saw a number congregate into marquees to escape the weather or leave the show early.

However, with a drop of ticket prices after 4pm, bosses said more people arrived to lap up the entertainment including the Household Cavalry Musical Ride, Massed Bands Finale Display and a spectacular fireworks display which was hailed as being bigger and better than ever before.

Mr Battisby said he was hopeful of a good attendance today. He said: "The advance ticket sales were well up so we are hoping that the pre-purchase people will turn up today."

The gates opened at 10am today to the general public and the highlights of the programme were expected to include cookery demonstrations by TV's The Hairy Bikers and a performance by Shropshire's Britain's Got Talent finalists Tina and Chandi.

More pictures and stories in today's Shropshire Star. Don't miss Monday's paper for the full show round-up.