THOUSANDS of people enjoyed a record-breaking Chorley Flower Show with the borough living up to its burgeoning reputation as the Northern Flowerhouse.

Astley Park was turned into a riot of colour with everything from beautiful begonias to resplendent roses and special guest appearances from TV stars Carol Klein and Chris Beardshaw.

Almost 15,000 people packed out the park for the award-winning event, organised by Chorley Council.

Cllr Alistair Bradley, leader of Chorley Council, said: “The flower show is growing in popularity each year and was a tremendous success again with people from all over the North West and beyond visiting Chorley and being impressed with what we have to offer here.

Cllr Bradley added: “Not only does this event attract people to Chorley, which boosts the local economy, there are many Chorley borough businesses taking part in the event and they all get a chance to showcase themselves to a wide audience.”

The event saw several new elements with the amateur section doubling in size.