ANDOVER’S third annual Gardening Fair has been coined a ‘blooming success’, bringing together gardening enthusiasts, businesses and community members.

Organised by InAndover from Andover BID and Test Valley Borough Council, the event on Sunday, May 19, had around 30 stalls and transformed the town centre into a lush, green paradise, drawing visitors from all around throughout the day.

The fair featured a diverse array of activities and attractions, including expert gardening workshops, engaging family-friendly activities, and a wide variety of plant and garden equipment stalls.

Attendees had the opportunity to learn from renowned horticulturists, explore innovative gardening products, and participate in hands-on demonstrations that catered to both novice and experienced gardeners.

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Andover Advertiser: Andover Gardening Fair attracted visitors to the town centreMike Parker, from Rooting for Andover Community Garden, who took part in the event, said: "I’ve been to a lot of garden fairs, but this garden fair must up there with the best."

Many town centre businesses reported strong sales and appreciated the opportunity to connect with new customers.

The fair was a hit with families, offering a range of activities from giant garden games, therapy goats and free face painting – it even had a visit from local alpacas. 

Shelley Coburn, from Andover BID, expressed her delight at the event's success, saying: "We are thrilled with the turnout and the positive response from the community. The Andover Gardening Fair not only highlighted the importance of gardening for our wellbeing and the environment but also showcased the incredible talent and passion within our local community. We look forward to continuing this as an annual tradition and love the range of visitors that the event attracts from the surrounding area and from further afield."

As the final petals fall on this year's event, plans are already in the works for next year's Gardening Fair, due to be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, promising even more exciting features and opportunities for the community to come together and celebrate gardening joy.