A TUDOR stately home will be transformed into a "riot of colour" when it stages its first flower festival later this month.
Roses, lilies, orchids and eustoma will be among the flowers on display throughout the 16th century Ingatestone Hall from Tuesday, September 25 to Thursday, September 27.
The drawing room, study and kitchen are just some of the rooms that will be given a floral makeover during the course of the three-day festival.
The floral extravaganza is being organised by the London and Overseas branch of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS).
Branch vice-president Janet Sarchet, who lives in Shenfield, said: "I am very much looking forward to the festival.
"It is going to be very exciting.
"There will be over 50 arrangements and all of the arrangers are bringing their own flowers.
"It is going to be a riot of colour in the beautiful surroundings of Ingatestone Hall."
Mrs Sarchet, who has been arranging flowers for more than 40 years, said she hopes there will be a good turnout.
She said: "I know for sure that we have got a coach coming from North London and the border with Hertfordshire but other than that we would like to have as many as possible every day."
The festival is taking place with the permission of Lord Petre, the owner of Ingatestone Hall. Mrs Sarchet said it was an honour to be able to stage the event there.
"It is the first time that they have ever had a flower festival and it is an enormous privilege," she said.
"Without Lord Petre's support we would not be doing it."
Lord Petre said: "I am very happy for it to be taking place.
"I think it is very appropriate and the effort which is going in to it on their part is enormous.
"It all looks very promising."
The festival will take place between 10.30am and 4.30pm on Tuesday, September 25, Wednesday, September 26 and Thursday, September 27.
Entrance to the house and the festival will cost £8 per head.
To buy tickets in advance, call 020 8360 5619.
For more information about NAFAS, visit www.nafas.org.uk
