Chelsea inspiration comes from city canal

Yesterday, Leeds City Council revealed the early preparation of their show garden entry at their Red Hall Nursery.

The centrepiece will be a lock gate allowing water to flow into a mock canal, beside three distinct habitats – woodland, wetland and a floral meadow – which can all be found in green spaces in Leeds.

Council executive member for leisure, Councillor John Procter, said being invited to enter the RHS Chelsea Flower Show was a great honour for the city and would raise its profile.

"The design for this year's garden is going to be our best yet," he said.

The garden's theme is the green links connecting the city centre to surrounding countryside and the design team – from the council's parks and countryside service with sponsors, Leeds-based Hesco Bastion providing engineering support – using the Leeds and Liverpool canal as their inspiration.

All seven Chelsea entries from Leeds since 1997 have won either silver or bronze medals.