Thousands enjoy 2024 Sandringham Flower Show despite no appearance from King Charles

Thousands of visitors soaked up the summer sunshine as Sandringham Flower Show once again proved to be a huge success.

There was a break from tradition as no members of the Royal Family attended the event for the first time in three decades - but it made little difference for those who did go along.

They were treated to bright, vibrant displays as well as a wide range of packed marquees and stalls.

One of the big winners was Lee Suckling, who took home the King George V Challenge Cup - which commends the best kept garden on the Sandringham estate.

Meanwhile, Michelle Butler won the Queen Mother Challenge Cup, which honours the best visual display.

Graham Browne, the event’s chairman, admitted it was disappointing to not have King Charles or Queen Camilla attend.

The King did go along to a service at St Mary Magdalene Church last weekend, as he continues to receive treatment following a cancer diagnosis.

However, his absence did not come close to spoiling the day - and with between 12,000 and 15,000 people believed to have taken in the show, the numbers actually exceeded those of last year.

“It was a really good day, with a good attendance,” Mr Browne said.

“Everybody enjoyed it, and the traders had a good day.”

Mr Brown and the rest of the Flower Show team are now busy clearing up, currently tackling the 1,000 chairs they have to stack up. The site will be clear by the weekend.

Other winners on Wednesday included Peter Matthews, who took home the Fred Waite Plantsman's Shield, and the Flowers from the Farm team of Vicky Coan, Alex Stevenson and Philippa Patterson, who won a large gold medal.

Emma’s Hedgehog Hospital, from Terrington St Clement, also scooped four awards after creating a wildlife garden.

Emma Pickering from the centre said: “We wanted to create a biodiverse garden, to support local ecosystems, attract a variety of wildlife, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

“The collective area of private gardens often surpasses that of public green spaces and parks. Therefore gardens can become a vital network of habitats that significantly contribute to ecological health and resilience.”

She thanked the Sandringham committee, NRS Landscapes, Parnell’s Plants, Moat Road Nursery, Thetford Garden Centre, and author and patron Helene Gardiner for their support - as well as Tracey Blackwell for her commitment to designing the garden.

Schools from Sandringham, Dersingham and Ingoldisthorpe also visited the show, while students from Lynn’s Springwood High School performed in the bandstand.

Shetland pony racing also provided a highlight on what was a thoroughly enjoyable day for all involved.

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