MADRESFIELD Court's famous daffodils may not be in bloom on Daffodil Sunday (March 19).

Like the rest of the country, the estate is suffering a dearth of blooms this year with many of the traditional spring flowers not even in bud.

The daffodils have been severely affected by the unusually cold weather this year, including snow and frost and cold winds.

"Spring has come late this year so unfortunately visitors won't see the usual display but they will see some of the earlier flowering bulbs including lots of snowdrops and crocuses," said estate manager Peter Hughes.

He said visitors would still be able to see daffodils, as some early varieties were in flower and that the magnificent grounds at Madresfield Court would be open as usual.

He said the date for Daffodil Sunday was set well in advance and there was no way of predicting the weather or precisely when plants would flower.

Head gardener at Madresfield Court Andrew Tawse said that it was all down to the recent cold weather and below freezing temperatures.

"With the days getting lighter all we need is a bit of sunshine and they'll all start flowering," he said.

Lady Morrison, who lives at Madresfield Court, said people visiting the court on Sunday would still see plenty of beautiful flowers.

"There are seas of blue and white crocuses which are not usually around at this time of year," she said.

On Sunday the gardens are open between 2-5pm. Admission costs £5 for adults and children over 11(children under 11 are free) and £4 for OAPs.

There will be cream teas and free parking and all proceeds will go to the parish churches of Guarlford and Madresfield.