Comedy legend Bill Bailey and gardening guru Alan Titchmarsh are staging a magnificent rebellion against one of horticulture's most controversial rules – wielding paintbrushes like weapons in their crusade to liberate the humble garden gnome from its Chelsea Flower Show exile!
The dynamic duo have united to create a spectacular 'gnome-painting' masterpiece for the King's garden at this year's prestigious show, which bursts into bloom on Tuesday at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in south-west London. It's a brilliant one-off strike that's raising both eyebrows and vital funds for the RHS campaign promoting the magic of British gardening.
This colourful protest targets the gnome ban that's been suffocating the show's spirit since 2010. The RHS brass imposed this draconian rule to make the event more 'refined and sophisticated' – but Bailey and Titchmarsh are having absolutely none of it! They're champions of the belief that these cheeky ceramic characters inject essential whimsy and joy into what can sometimes feel like a stuffy affair.
The pair are leading the charge for a permanent gnome amnesty, arguing these delightful garden guardians deserve their rightful place amongst the roses and rhododendrons. Their painted gnomes will take centre stage in the King's garden, surrounded by the show's spectacular array of exhibits that make this the crown jewel of Britain's gardening calendar.
Garden enthusiasts won't miss a moment of the action, with comprehensive coverage on Channel 5 and streaming on My5. Fancy joining the gnome revolution in person? Tickets start from just £22 for a day pass – a bargain for witnessing horticultural history in the making!