Gold awards for region's florists at prestigious show

There were successes for florists and companies based in Willenhall, Stone, West Bromwich and Stafford.

Twin sisters Jessica and Victoria Richards from Willenhall, who set up Victoria Richards Floral Design together, both picked up gold in the Young Florist of the Year category.

For Victoria it was her second gold and it was Jessica's first. The pair work at Lavender Florist, based in Penkridge.

Today Victoria said: "I still can't believe we got gold. It's been a bit overwhelming really. Jess is over the moon. We both are."

West Bromwich-based Craig House Cacti also picked up their fifth gold gold award.

The Durham Drive company, run by Stan Griffin and his partner Vicki Newman, succeeded in the Floral Marquee category. They forgo their winter holiday to tend the plants.

Mr Griffin, who has been growing cacti for the past 50 years, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to get another gold, particularly as we have struggled with such cold weather."

There were also awards for Eagle Sweet Peas based, in Broadmoor Lane, Stowe-by-Chartley near Stafford and Hooksgreen Herbs, in Old Road, Stone, which both picked up a silver-gilt flora award in the Floral Marquee category at the prestigious event. The world-famous Chelsea Flower Show is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. It spans 11 acres and attracts more than 150,000 visitors, including members of the Royal Family.

The show will run runs until Saturday. among the highlights of the annual horticuticultural festival is the rose garden put together by Albrighton-based David Austin Roses.

White, pink, red, yellow and apricot-coloured roses are all included in the garden, which boasts 500 strains. The company, based in Bowling Green Lane, has been attending the show since 1983.