BEAUTIFUL scented blooms, succulent home-grown produce and a mouth-watering array of tasty regional food and wines are among the highlights of the Autumn Garden & Country Show on the Three Counties Showground, Malvern.

Event organiser, the Three Counties Agricultural Society, is delighted that the most diverse of its events, with its charming mix of autumn flowers, harvest produce, native livestock and family entertainment continues to entice visitors from all over the country.

The commercial apple and pears section at this year's show, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 24 and 25, will incorporate a new apple juice competition for growers.

"This event goes from strength to strength," said spokeswoman Sharon Gilbert. "It really is the perfect end to the gardening year and, of course, because it takes place just 13 weeks before Christmas and boasts around 500 tradestands, it's a great source of quality Christmas gifts too."

It's the last chance of the season to see the RHS Flower Show, housing everything from acers, dahlias and sweet peas to heathers, hederas and hostas in a 5,000 square metre marquee.

For vegetable growers there is the open gardening competitions and the national Vegetable Society Midlands area championships.

Back by popular demand is a fully interactive children's farm park where little ones can get close to rabbits, cavies, chickens, cows and sheep.

Ms Gilbert said: "Much of the event's appeal comes from its mix of attractions and this year sees the return of vintage cars and machinery, an inspirational cookery theatre alongside an action-packed activity area."

Parents and little ones are being invited to play detective and find answers to questions as part of a new educational challenge.

The Family Fun Trail is the brainchild of Sue Hodgson-Jones of the Young Gardener Company, currently working along show organisers to develop educational initiatives at the showground. The trail takes participants all round the show and offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about everything from horticulture and food production, to rural pastimes and country pursuits.