FRENCHAY Flower Show aims to mark its 80th anniversary by returning to the place where it all began.
The volunteer-run community show attracted a record 4,000 visitors in July and is outgrowing its current site on Frenchay Common, which requires part of Beckspool Road to be closed.
The first ever show in 1945 was held on the grounds of the then Frenchay Hospital – and next year organisers hope to return to the same site, on an open space which has been protected from development as hundreds of new homes are built around it.
The new ‘village green’ site opposite Jenkins Way is bordered by Lime Tree Avenue, Loverose Lane, Frenchay Park play area and the tennis club, as well as the woodland area next to Begbrook Park.
With the support of Winterbourne Parish Council, which is taking responsibility for the green space from developers, the flower show organisers hope next year’s show, on July 12, will be the first major public event to be staged there.
Show coordinator Roger Lloyd said: “This return to our roots will bring back the nostalgia of the good old days.
“There will be more marquees, flowers, plant sales and a wide variety of new stalls and entertainment. And the classic car display will also include a few WWII vintage army vehicles.
“By shifting the show there we will also include the people who have moved into the new homes built on the Frenchay Hospital site in recent years.
“After the massive success of this year’s show, when over 4,000 visitors enjoyed an extravaganza, we’ve ambitions to make this a brilliant family event for the wider community of Frenchay.
“We’re planning an event that will be fun for all ages, with various activities and entertainment.”
Organisers have already secured many of the community groups involved in previous shows, including Downend Flower Arranging Club, Downend Men in Sheds, Bristol Phoenix Art Club and Bristol Starlight Cheer Squad to help on the day next year.
They are also planning to offer early bird discounted tickets for sale online in the new year, and are giving an early shout-out to stall holders, traders, and food concessions to contact them.
One area organisers are paying special attention to is sponsorship from local businesses.
Roger said: “Sponsorship is crucial to staging the event.
“The show is an expensive enterprise with marquees costing many thousands to hire, not to mention fencing, power generation, insurance and facilities.”
“Fortunately, interest is already high.” Anyone who is interested in sponsoring next year’s show or having a stall at the event contact the organisers by email at enquiries@fenchayflowershow.com.