Breathtaking Traditional Flowers Steal the Show at Bloom

Bloom, Ireland's largest and most spectacular gardening showcase, hosted by Bord Bia, today awarded the highest accolade to four of the exquisite and colourful displays in its floral pavilion. The floral pavilion, with almost 50 exhibitors, presented an explosion of inspirational plant and floral combinations.

Billy Alexander, Dicksonia Direct, Co Kerry scooped a gold medal along with Paul and Orla Woods from Kilmurry Nursery, Maurice Wynne from Mad Flowers and the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin.

Judging for the Floral Pavillion took place in the Phoenix Park over several days and the judging panel, consisting of leading nursery experts, were wowed by the creativity and insight of the exhibitors, who married wonderful mixes of plants and flowers to create a visual wonderland. "The cottage garden seems to be the inspiration for many of the displays at the Bloom Floral Pavillion and the trend of ‘Old World' flowers is becoming very popular" added Orla Woods, Floral Pavillion Organiser.

Despite the undeniable vision and artistry of the exhibitiors, traditional flowers were on display in every corner, which will come as no surprise as recent research conducted by Bord Bia revealed that the traditional rose was the nations flower of choice.

"The displays throughout the Bloom Floral Pavillion are of the highest international quality and have set an exceptional standard for this showcase in its inaugural year. I can evisage many exhibitors preparing well in advance of next years show now knowing the calibre of the event," commented Margaret Gormley from OPW and member of the Judging Panel.

With 110 exhibitors, 30 stunning show gardens and the 50 vibrant floral and planting displays, Bloom is guaranteed to be a world class gardening experience in a fun and family orientated environment.

This 4 day showcase will also include daily entertainment; creative workshops, exquisite sculpture displays, outdoor food markets, a variety of specialty garden retail exhibits, a family ‘fun learning zone', live bee demonstrations, and a 25m2 maze.

Tickets are available daily onsite or you can call 0818 300 260. For further information, log onto www.bloominthepark.com - Bloom 2007 takes place in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, from Friday June 1st to Monday June 4th 2007.

-Ends-

 For further information or a spokesperson on Bloom 2007, please contact:

Rosaleen O'Shaughnessy, Corporate Communications, Bord Bia

01 614 2245

Note: please see attached the full list of award winners at Bloom 2007