The scent of lavender is wafting through the Shropshire air

And its all thanks to an explosion of the lavender blossoming in fields at a farm near Newport.

Shropshire Lavender, based at Wellbank Farm, in Pickstock, will re-open on Saturday (JUNE 28) and visitors will be able to see for themselves the picturesque fields in full flower and soak up the scent.

There are three acres of fields, filled with about 25,000 lavender plants. Plans are also afoot to plant another acre of field in the autumn.

Joanna Spencer, who runs Shropshire Lavender with her husband Robin, said: "Come and see our lavender field in full flower, buzzing with bees and clouds of beautiful butterflies."

There will also be lavender plants for sale as well as a lavender gift shop with the farm's own essential oil and range of handmade soaps, shower gels, shampoos.

Artist Angela Sowdon will also be demonstrating landscape painting during the afternoon.

In July, there will be a full programme of events every weekend.

Sue McLamb of the British Dragonfly Society will be talking about the life cycle of dragonflies on July 12. It costs £4 and as there are only 20 places, booking is essential.

On July 19 and 20, Chris Bartlett of Pell Wall Perfumes will be giving talks and demonstrations. Tickets are £5.

"And we also hold our distillation weekend on July 26 and 27 when Robin demonstrates the art of distilling lavender with our copper still and talks on the history of distillation through the ages," said Joanna.

But first on July 5 and 6, the stage will be set at the farm for the annual Chetwynd Medieval Fair.

There will be knights and ladies along with archery, falconry and a medieval puppet show.

Entrance £5 for adults and children up to 14yrs go free. For more information contact www.chetwyndmedievalfair.co.uk

Shropshire Lavender is open to visitors from until August 17 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between noon and 5pm.