HOLKER Hall is bracing itself for a bumper three-day garden festival, expected to draw in excess of 25,000 visitors this weekend, reports Karen Barden.

Organisers say there is something for everyone and celebrity guests Clarissa Dickson-Wright and 80s pop idol Kim Wilde are on hand to share their passion for countryside and horticulture.

Crook landscape gardener Andrew Metcalfe has made three Elterwater slate vases for the rock chick turned gardening guru, and will be displaying his wares at the festival.

He explained that Kim Wilde had wanted to create a corner of Lakeland in her own grounds.

A burgeoning action-packed schedule allows amateurs and experts to discuss every element of their gardens, while brass, jazz and big band sounds provide lively alternatives.

Alongside show gardens, there are rare plant displays, herb marquee and floral art and display extravaganzas.

Once again, the Made in Cumbria Food Hall will tempt visitors to a host of gourmet experiences and organisers say well-known chefs will be offering some mouth-watering treats.

The Little Seedlings Crche offers child minding for up to two hours, allowing parents to wander around the vast array of trade stands and display areas. Punch and Judy Shows and a range of children's entertainers will also be making appearances over the three days.

Garden festival show director Elizabeth Ward said the South Lakeland stately home offered space for visitors to explore, that so many other festivals lacked.

"Holker Hall Garden Festival thrives on a culture of freedom and exploration," she said. "Encouraging appreciation of stunning Cumbrian countryside, the infrastructure of the event is such that it provides areas for visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of an incessant three-day schedule."

The festival starts today (Friday) and runs through to late afternoon on Sunday.

May 29, 2003 16:30