ATHELHAMPTON House near Puddletown will play host to a specialist plant fair this weekend.

Organised by Plant Heritage Dorset Group, the event will include a wide selection of shrubs, roses, perennials and alpine plants from some of the best growers and plantsmen in Dorset and neighbouring counties.

The emphasis is on quality plants at reasonable prices, with tips and advice available from the people who grow the plants.

This Plant Fair is often the best opportunity to pick up something rare or difficult to find without paying a fortune, organisers say.

There will also be plants for acidic, chalk, limestone & clay soils, plus plants for exposed coastal locations and shade. Dorset Wildlife Trust will also be there to advise and answer questions.

The Plant Fair is open from 10am until 3pm tomorrow (Sun). Admission is £5 and includes access to the grounds of Athelhampton House and gardens.

Plant Heritage is the UK’s leading garden plant conservation charity. Proceeds from these events supports Plant Heritage’s conservation & education work in Dorset. Last year, Puddletown First School was a major beneficiary and Plant Heritage helped the pupils to plant areas around the school to encourage bees, butterflies and other wildlife.