IT is 10 years since the Royal Horticultural Society first brought its annual show to Tatton Park, and this year's again deservedly drew enormous crowds.

Unlike last year, when the show was deluged with rain, the weather was kinder.

And what a treat it was for everyone, in sun tops and short sleeves and hats, strolling around all the stands offering attractive and ingenious and useful things for the gardener and home owner.

The picnic tables were a popular feature and for those unlucky enough not to find a seat, the dry grass provided a welcome spot for a rest, all of which contributed to an almost festive atmosphere.

The quality of the flower display entries was, if anything, higher than ever and the amateur photographers were kept busy capturing the colourful sights they presented.

About 100,000 people visited the four-day show.

There were hopes the soaring temperatures might have attracted record crowds this year but the RHS was still delighted with the numbers – especially given the credit crunch.

The RHS brought forward the traditional sell-off – when visitors can buy cut-price items from the displays - by 30 minutes on Sunday to 3.30pm so that people had more time for bargain hunting.