The forecast of gales saw an early finish to Press Day but despite the terrible weather, the first RHS Flower Show at Chatsworth looks set to be a success.

Raymond Blanc pictured here in the Belmond Enchanted Gardens by designer Butter Wakefield

The scene was set for what should prove to be a beautiful show. The privileged guests, celebrities and press were out in force despite the gloomy weather for the official launch of the show. The Show Gardens have all been manicured and prepared to perfection and judging was taking place throughout the day to see who might pick up a coveted Gold Medal and the Best in Show accolade.

Dancers from the London Contemporary Ballet Theatre perform in the Brewin Dolphin Garden by designer Jo Thompson

The eight main show gardens at the first RHS Chatsworth Show are particularly good with many of them cleverly using the beautiful Chatsworth backdrop to blend their gardens into the stunning surroundings, making the gardens feel really established and larger than their actual plot size.

The Wedgwood Garden 'A Classic Re-Imagined' by designer Sam Ovens is now complete and looking stunning.

Even with the cloudy weather this garden and its planting looked spectacular. Cruse Bereavement Care - 'A Time for Everything' by designer Neil Sutcliffe

My favourite part of the day was meeting and chatting with the chef Raymond Blanc. We discussed at length his passion for gardening and that some of the plants for the Belmond Enchanted Gardens were supplied from his garden at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons (See images main blog image and below)

Raymond Blanc enjoying a quick drink in the Belmond Enchanted Garden.