The 17 acres of beautiful gardens at Bressingham were the perfect location for the spring launch of Anglia in Bloom, which this year is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

To mark the occasion Bressingham Gardens owner Adrian Bloom, Anglia In Bloom president Brian Thornton and chairman Bob Ollier planted a tree in the grounds.

Trustee officers, judges and In Bloom delegates were treated to a tour of the six gardens before master classes were given by Mr Bloom and Jamie Blake.

Mr Bloom, who has also become a patron for Anglia in Bloom, said: 'I have been aware of In Bloom for a number of years but I did not fully realise the work they do to encourage neighbourhoods.

'They encourage villages and councils to use plants to beautify things. That is something we share.'

During the Summer Anglia in Bloom judges will be visiting communities in the region to assess the entries.

Entrants will be judged on their efforts to promote sustainability, their involvement with the community, care for the environment and horticultural excellence.

Four new categories have been introduced this year, best floral public house, best floral hotel, best floral restaurant and best woodland.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony to be held in Gorleston in September.