VINTAGE is the theme of this year’s Southport Flower Show, which runs from Thursday, August 18, to Sunday, August 21.

Some of the 75,000 visitors are expected to stroll around the 34 acres of Victoria Park in costume.

A vintage cinema bus will screen footage from previous shows.

A new awards ceremony will celebrate the hard work of all the growers, gardeners and exhibitors.

The best outdoor show garden and best exhibit will be top of the among the top prizes.

Tony Kirkham, one of the country’s leading tree experts, will give a talk on the hidden oriental origins of many common plants and flowers, on August 18.

Author and broadcaster, Matthew Wilson, from Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time, will give tips on ‘Making a Garden’.

He will will also talk about work on the Olympic garden, taking shape in London for the 2012 games.

Celebrities are expected on Ladies’ Day, on Friday, August 19.

Food is the focus of Saturday, when TV chef Simon Rimmer, and Masterchef finalist, Stacie Stewart, will demonstrate a selection of dishes.

A multi-faith worship service heralds the start of Sunday’s show, with a grand sell off of plants and flowers at 4pm. David Jackson, chief executive, said: “There is something here for all the famiily to enjoy.

“It’s an event that we should all be proud of because people flock to see it every year from all over the country and beyond.

“We’re looking forward to this being our best yet.”

Advance tickets, priced £16, are available by calling 0844 847 1555 or visit southportflowershow.co.ukchildren under 16 go free.