Ninety-year-old marks site where gardening shows first took root

It was the 70th plaque to be unveiled in the city by York Civic Trust since 1946. Former society Secretary Mr Robinson did the honours outside Barnitts, a former pub.

Society President Penelope Dawson-Brown said: "The Ancient Society of York Florists is the oldest horticultural society in the world and the fact that it survived two World Wars, a time when gardens and greenhouses fell into decline, is remarkable.

"This could not have been possible without Arthur Robinson who, during his long term as Secretary, inspired both committee members and exhibitors with his enthusiasm."

Although the Ancient Society was formed in 1768, it traces its origins to the Society of Gardeners at York, which flourished in the reign of Queen Anne when it was granted Royal patronage. Floriculture became popular mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Civic Trust Director Peter Brown added: "York has so many layers of history and so many stories to tell, we willnever run out of topics and I am sure there will be many more plaques to unveil in the future."