The prizes are ripe for the picking in more than 300 classes, which range from house plants to hanging baskets, begonias to bonsai trees and chrysanthemums to cacti in the Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables category and the Floral Art Classes. Prizes for first, second and third are given in each class.

Entries must be submitted by 23 July and the competitions are open to anyone who has a passion for planting, growing and arranging. Classes are open to individuals, families, professionals and specialist groups. Junior classes are also available.

Shrewsbury Flower Show Exhibitor Mr Chislett from Minsterley, near Shrewsbury explains how easy it is to get involved:

“Twelve years ago a friend gave me a packet of sweet pea seeds and challenged me to enter the show and I have been exhibiting ever since. The Shrewsbury Flower Show is a great way to meet new people and grow your hobbies – I went from that packet of seeds to winning prestigious awards and becoming a committee member of the National Sweet Pea Society!”

The Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables Competition is open to anyone who grows their own fruit, vegetables or herbs in their own garden or allotment.

For an entry form call 01743 234050 or write to The Secretary, Quarry Lodge, Shrewsbury, SY1 1RN. The closing date for entry forms is 23 July 2011.

Shrewsbury Flower Show, now in its 124th year, runs from 12 to 13 August. This year, alongside the best in garden design and planting, there will be heart stopping entertainment from celebrity chef Gino D’aCampo, the Royal Artillery Motorcycle Display Team and medieval jousters The Knights of the Damned.

For more information and tickets visit www.shrewsburyflowershow.org or call 01743 234050.