Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will be joining the crowds at this year's Sandringham Flower Show.

Eastern Daily Press: The Duchess of Cornwall on a walkabout at the Sandringham Flower Show. Picture: Ian BurtThe Duchess of Cornwall on a walkabout at the Sandringham Flower Show. Picture: Ian Burt

With the weather set fair, organisers are expecting bumper crowds to flock to the Queen's estate in West Norfolk on Wednesday, July 25.

The Prince and Duchess usually arrive in a horse drawn carriage to begin a tour of the showground. They tour the main marquees, before going on a walkabout and meeting show-goers.

The rolling park will be packed with marquees, stalls and displays for the day-long event.

What began more than a century ago as a village fete, with prizes to encourage tenants to look after their gardens, has grown into a day-long celebration of outdoor living.

Eastern Daily Press: The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrive at the Sandringham Flower Show. Picture: Ian BurtThe Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrive at the Sandringham Flower Show. Picture: Ian Burt

Top nurseries show off their blooms, while show gardeners compete for the coveted Best in Show and People's Choice awards.

Their efforts are judged by TV gardeners Chris Beardshaw and Alan Mason, who are also among those giving advice in the Horticultural Talks Marquee.

There are dazzling displays from some of the region's best growers in the main marquees, while hundreds of stalls offer everything for the gardener - whether it's next year's bulbs or this year's must-have gadget.

Food and drink stalls offer something for every taste, with local producers and their produce strongly represented.

Main arena events include the David Seamark sheepdog display, the Imps Motorcycle Display Team, the British Imperial Memorial Band, Jonathan Marshall falconry, the Tigers Parachute Display Team and the Busybodies Performance Team.

Since 1977, the show has donated more than £500,000 to charities and good causes in West Norfolk.

Long after the crowds go home and the marquees come down, the volunteer-run show goes on making a difference to countless lives across the county.

Gates open at 9am on Wednesday. Tickets are £10 adult, under-16s free. Admission to the event also includes entry to Sandringham Gardens, Sandringham Museum and Sandringham Church. There is ample free parking around the showground.

Don't miss Monday's West & Fens edition of the EDP for a free copy of this year's show programme (RRP £2).