Some of Herefordshire’s most talented flower arrangers helped make the first ever Great British Flower Festival a blooming success.

More than 1,200 people descended on picturesque Dore Abbey in Abbeydore where more than 40 arrangements, all with a country summer theme, were on display.

At least £25,000 has been raised for St Michael’s Hospice in Bartestree following the inaugural three-day festival.

Staff from Herefordshire’s The Great British Florist and around 30 members of NAFAS (National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies) were among those taking part.

‘It’s been a wonderful three days celebrating the work of some great flower arrangers,’ said Paddy Nugent, the Hospice’s Community Fundraising Manager.

‘We’re grateful to everyone who attended, raising much-needed funds for St Michael’s. We hope they enjoyed their time at this lovely venue.’

The festival was opened by Herefordshire-based TV presenter Kate Bliss.

Visitors were able to enjoy a range of displays inspired by weddings, Christenings and festivals.

Many flower lovers and Hospice supporters got behind the festival by each giving a £100 donation to sponsor one of the flower arrangements.