THE Spring Gardening Show celebrated its 20th anniversary by announcing a fourth day next year.

The extra day will be Thursday and chief executive of the Three Counties Agricultural Society Nick Vincent, organisers of the show with the Royal Horticultural Society, said: "It will be in the form of a preview day, opening at 12noon and going through to 6pm. It has become necessary because of the growth of the show from its small beginnings 20 years ago to the hugely popular event it is today, attracting more than 90,000 visitors."

Crowds thronged the showground throughout last weekend, rubbing shoulders with gardening celebrities including Alan Titchmarsh, Chris Beardshaw and Monty Don among the host of exhibits, tradestands and show gardens.

Students from Pershore College built one garden alongside the college stand called A Garden Party to celebrate 50 years of Pershore College. The classic garden, with traditional favourite flowers and references to commercial vegetable growing to reflect Pershore's early beginnings. featuring a central water feature as a five tier birthday cake complete with cocktail glasses. It was described by a previous principal, Dr David Hall, as "a wonderful piece of work."

A charity gala evening on the eve of the show in the giant Floral Marquee attracted 500 guests special show preview raised £10,000.