Claygate's renowned flower show returns this July as organisers seek to build on its remarkable run.

The Surrey village's famous show was founded in 1903 and has since run every year during peacetime.

Across decades, volunteers have teemed up with the regional authorities and businesses to grow the show beyond its humble horticultural origins.

Speaking to the Surrey Comet, Gary State, one of the show's veteran organisers, said its smaller foundations have since grown into something much bigger.

"It's the biggest independent flower show and so much more than that too," Mr State said.

"We're really proud of it. It shows the best of our community—the people, the schools and the businesses all working together," he added.

This year's edition, taking place on Saturday, July 13, will build on recent additions such as sports races, a massively popular dog show, and more modern aspects such as the prosecco and beer tents.

The show, Mr State said, has come a long way since it was founded as a flower show by Lord Foley, who owned much of the land in Claygate at the start of the 20th Century.

Much of that success and growth is thanks to the growing contributions of residents in the area, he added.

"It's over a hundred years old but it's not stationary. On the committee now we have a lot of younger people and parents contributing," Mr State said.

He added that last year's edition witnessed between six and seven thousand people descend on the picturesque Surrey village for the event.

Indeed, alongside the determination of residents to maintain and expand what's known in Claygate simply as "The Show", the support of businesses and local politicians in the area has also helped grow those numbers by building on previous editions.

The 2018 Mayor of Elmbridge, Shweta Kapadia who opened last year’s Show, said: "Every year, the Mayors love coming to the Claygate Flower and Village Show because it is so much fun.

"The 2019 Mayor of Elmbridge, Mary Sheldon, has been invited to open this year’s Show," Ms Kapadia added.

The Show's 2019 President John Baldwin, meanwhile said that this year would aim to offer something for everyone who attended:

"It will be my great pleasure to welcome you to this year’s Claygate Flower & Village Show. There truly is something for everyone, whether they live in Claygate or are visitors," Mr Baldwin said.

For online tickets, online exhibition entries and further details on all aspects of the Show, visit the Show's new website: www.claygateflowershow.co.uk

Advance tickets are available in Claygate from Londis and Johnstons newsagents in Claygate (£4 per adult / £2 per child) or online (£4.50 per adult / £2.50 per child), which might be particularly helpful for people from outside the village.

Ticket prices at the gate are £6 per adult and £3 per child. Children under five go FREE.