A Chislehurst woman has seen her amateur horticultural club blossom after scooping gold at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show.

Christine Bourner, 58, set up Flowers for All nine years ago and last week saw it awarded a ‘Best Floral Arrangement’ accolade in the floral marquee.

The plumbing firm owner said she knew nothing about the pastime before starting the organisation and is still getting over the shock of receiving a top prize from the Royal Horticultural Society.

She told News Shopper: “I’m so surprised, it’s an amazing achievement.

“I didn’t know a thing about flowers before I got involved – I just do it as a hobby.

“We got the opportunity to go to Chelsea last minute and I’m really happy, and so are my members.”

Mrs Bourner, who lives near Chislehurst High Street, said Flowers for All is inclusive and welcomes everyone from gardening experts to beginners.

Nearly a decade in the running she also mentioned managing a silver gilt at the event last year but receiving a gold medal is “truly special”.

She added: “It hasn’t really sunk in really. I can’t quite believe it.

“We’re a local club and anyone can come along. We go on outings, have talks and workshops, and do some fundraising.”

Flowers for All was among six gold medallists in the category’s second exhibition, which had around 40 entrants from the likes of Hitchin, Oxford, and Llanelli, Wales.