GARDENERS pottered around Arley Hall at the weekend during a celebration of all things horticultural.

The 23rd Arley Garden Festival hosted an array of nurseries and horticultural stands.

Staff from Norton Priory were on hand to tell visitors about the newly restored museum, Georgian walled garden and extensive woodlands.

Rural traditions and crafts were on display in a countryside marquee.

Among those displaying their talents was Natasha Twigg – known as Twiggy – who helps manage small woodlands around the north west. She also puts fallen trees and branches to good use by turning them into crafts.

Cheshire Gardens Trust shared their knowledge of the county’s gardens and their history.

Arley Bakes gave visitors the chance to taste a selection of dishes and watch chefs’ demonstrations.

There was also gardeners’ question time and a stunning floral marquee where nurseries were awarded for their creativity and quality of planting.

For the first time experts from the Royal Horticultural Society shared their knowledge with inquisitive amateur gardeners.

“We really try to create a fun atmosphere with music and lots of great food,” said events manager Helen Begent.