A RECORD-breaking 98,000 people visited the 20th Malvern Spring Gardening Show, with some coming from as far as New Zealand.

The showground had a holiday atmosphere, with the sun shining, a jazz band playing and visitors relaxing on picnic rugs on every spare piece of grass.

"It was more than just the weather that made the show such a success this year," said event spokesman Sharon Gilbert.

"Gardening is important to so many people in this country. They come for ideas, inspiration and tips from the celebrities and to buy the pick of the plants from some of the best nurseries in the country."

The show's popularity means that an extra half day will be added next year. The 2006 show will open between 12 noon and 6pm on Thursday, May 11, and continue until Sunday, May 14. Ticket prices will be the same as for a full day.

Attractions this year included a record 15 show gardens and the Royal Horticultural Society's floral marquee, 1.6 acres of displays from 100 top nurseries with an estimated 3,000 varieties of plants.

Overall, the show had 30 acres of gardens, floral displays, specialist plant sales, innovative design ideas and revolutionary garden gadgets, together with crafts and a food and wine section.

Gardening celebrities Alan Titchmarsh, Monty Don, Joe Swift, Chris Beardshaw and James Alexander-Sinclair were all there.

"I've been coming here for more than ten years and it just gets better," said Mr Titchmarsh. "It's such a lovely show, a real shot in the arm that galvanises you into action for the gardening year."

He was particularly impressed by a new permanent children's garden, created by pupils at Northleigh Primary School in Malvern.

"I loved gardening as a child and I think Ground Force has had a real impact and left a very positive legacy. It's great to see children so interested and enthusiastic," he said.