LEDBURY Horticultural Society celebrates 150 years in 2025.

Records indicate that the name Ledbury Horticultural Society was formed and the name established for the first time in 1875.

A spokesperson for the Society said: "Our research into the history of the society clearly showed that as early as 1866 there were flower societies in the Ledbury area under the names of floral or cottage garden society, however the Horticultural name was first established in 1875.

"Since that date numerous shows and events have been held annually under The Horticultural Society name.”

The spokeperson added: "From more recent times some interesting facts have been uncovered

• In 1956 a Ledbury Floral Fete was held with over 6000 people in attendance and the event made a profit of £128 11s 8d.

• 1959 was a vintage year with 8,000 attending and 603 exhibits

• In 1967 &1968 the show was held outdoors in conjunction with the Ledbury Pony Club.

• In 1975 the show was again held outdoors after an invite from the Carnival committee who supplied a large marquee.”

Over the years Indoor venues have also been used and include: the Market house, Burgage hall and St.Katherine’s hall and of course, the Community Centre where it is held today, again in conjunction with the Ledbury Carnival

To celebrate the occasion the committee of the Horticultural society has arranged for a 2025 calendar to be published.

The calendar will include a brief history of the society but also images from the 2024 Flower Show including class winners and some class exhibits.

Copies of the Calendar can be purchased from either:

Mark at the Newent Plant Centre, Little Verzon Farm, or James at the Ledbury Hardware Store, Homend, Ledbury.

The Calendars will cost £10 and for each calendar sold a donation of £2 will be presented to St. Michael’s Hospice.

Contents of the Calendar can be viewed on the society’s facebook page: The Ledbury Flower Show.

The spokesperson stated: "We hope that as many people from Ledbury and the surrounding area can support the Horticultural Society on their 150th anniversary, by not only purchasing a calendar but supporting the 2025 Flower Show, which is held every August Bank Holiday Monday. “

If you would like any further information then please contact the society secretary on 07875478484.