THE countdown has begun for gardening students faced with their biggest challenge yet.

They will be racing against the clock to demonstrate how to build a garden in just 60 minutes at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show next month.

As part of a new series of practical demonstrations, the students from Askham Bryan College will be building two gardens against the clock - one traditional and one contemporary.

Show director Nick Smith said: “Building a garden can be a painstaking and expensive business, so it is tempting to postpone making a change, sometimes indefinitely.

“With the new feature, we wanted to give visitors the opportunity to see a small plot come together quickly so they can take away ideas for refreshing their garden, or perhaps part of their garden, easily and economically.”

Leading the demonstrations will be gardening expert, Nigel Harrison. He will also be showing visitors how they can identify and banish a variety of unwelcome bugs, as well as building raised beds suitable for back yards or small spaces.

Also new this year will be Dig for Victory celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of VE Day and a children’s activity trail.

The show runs at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, from April 23 to 26.

Tickets: Thurs, Fri, Sat £15.50 when purchased before April 14; £18 on the gate. Sun £16 on the gate or £13.50 in advance. Under-16s go free when accompanied by an adult. Book on line at flowershow.org.uk or call 01423-546157.