NewswireToday - /newswire/ - Lytham, Lancashire, United Kingdom, 05/05/2007 - Maverick garden designer and Celebrity Diarmuid Gavin has accepted the invitation to become a patron of Southport Flower Show, which takes place next year on 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th August.

Diarmuid, who officially opened the show this year, was hugely impressed with the Flower Show’s family-friendly and unpretentious approach and its wide appeal to both amateur and professional garden lovers. Southport Flower Show, which is an independent charity, is bigger than Chelsea’s annual horticultural event.

Describing his enthusiasm for Show Diarmuid said: "I am overjoyed to become a patron of Southport Flower Show. It’s a dazzling independent celebration of all things good in gardening and I can't wait for a return visit."

In his new role as patron, Diarmuid will be presenting the prize for “Student Garden Designer of the Year”. In the past, this annual competition has provided a platform for the region’s emerging talent from northwest based Myerscough College. However, next year, for the very first time, the competition will be national and open to any college across the country that includes garden design courses on their syllabus.

Developing young talent is something that is close to Diarmuid’s heart. The winning entries will be given the chance to re-produce and showcase their designs at Southport Flower Show with the build funded by the charity and each of the two finalists will also receive a personal cash prize of £1000 each. This, together with the accolade of winning the award, will provide a springboard for new garden designers and will help newcomers to establish themselves within the industry. For more information on the Student Garden Designer of the Year competition please call 01704 547147

Agency / Source: Spotlight PR Ltd

Availability: All Regions (Including Int'l)

Traffic Booster: [/] Quick Newswire Today Visibility Checker

Distribution / Indexing: [+]