A NEW friends group formed to support activities at Croome Park, near Upton, has attracted some prestigious backing.

Lady Maria Coventry, who lived in the National Trust property, has agreed to be the group's patron and TV gardener Chris Beardshaw will be president.

A total of 41 members attended the first Friends of Croome Park meeting last week.

Treasurer John Willis said: "The idea is to support activities going on at the park by way of attracting visitors and telling them about its history and events happening there."

Friends group members pay an annual subscription of £5 and receive a quarterly newsletter.

The group's public launch takes place at the park on Saturday, April 30. For further details, contact Mr Willis on 01684 594570.