A WORLD-famous ballet, with all its mystery and passion, drama and tragedy, is the inspiration for one of 15 show gardens at the Spring Gardening Show (May 13-15) at Malvern's Three Counties Showground - a record-breaking collection for its twentieth anniversary year.

The Elysium Swan Lake Garden-inspired by Tchaikovsky's masterpiece- is the work of designer Caroline Parsons and looks set to be a talking point amongst the event's 90,000 visitors.

The garden features a statue of the black and white swans, Odette and Odile dancing their last dance before Prince Siegfried declares his love for Odile, and Odette dies of a broken heart. A blue glass lake and striking black and white planting against a night-time backdrop of woodland flora and fauna complete the picture.

Female designers are out in force at Malvern this year, and That Friday Feeling- aimed at making the most of precious free time and space- is the collective work of no less than nine talented ladies of Bristol-based Design Friday.

Lindsay Stanton of Worcestershire is building Chic To Chic- an intimate and romantic garden and a cool, urban space for busy working couples or singletons looking to relax after a hectic week.

The Spring Gardening Show-celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year- is a joint venture of the Three Counties Agricultural Society and the Royal Horticultural Society.

It boasts inspirational gardens, exquisite floral displays and 30 acres of specialist blooms, innovative design ideas and revolutionary gadgets, together with fine crafts and delicious food and wine.