At a time when gardening programmes fill the television schedules and ’dirty’ home grown vegetables are in fashion, it is ironic that many traditional horticultural shows are struggling.

The enthusiasts preparing for the annual Brechin Flower Show later this week admit their horticultural society is struggling to find office-bearers and the seam of local talent that made their event one of the most prestigious in the country is not as rich as a few years ago.

“We are struggling to get people to run the show and exhibitors are getting thin on the ground,” admitted vice-president Tom Drever.

“Shows like Brechin were major events in the gardeners calendar and we had a national reputation.

“We can still rely on growers and entries in the industrial categories to put on a good display but we fear the heyday for shows like ours may be past.

“Smaller, village type shows will continue to be well supported and the big shows will survive, but those in between are struggling.”

Brechin Horticultural Society dates back to 1839 and is one of the oldest in Angus.

Its vigorous and distinguished membership meant that its fame spread all over the UK with local growers picking up awards at the top shows.

“Brechin was fortunate in having growers of a high standard and we still do, but they are fewer than they used to be,” said Mr Drever.

“We are always looking for new members and entries.”

Exhibits for this year’s show can be taken to the City Hall throughout Thursday.

The show will be open to the public on Friday afternoon and evening and on Saturday.