The Queen has sent a message of support to the Chelsea Flower Show in a difficult year. As the annual event went online, because of the coronavirus pandemic, Her Majesty underlined its importance to the Royal Family.
The Chelsea Flower Show has been cancelled for the first time since the Second World War because of the coronavirus pandemic. The event will now be held virtually with online content including tours of gardens and horticultural tips being shared from May 18th 2020.
In a special message to mark the start of this very different running of the show, the Queen said:
”On the occasion of the Opening of the Virtual Chelsea Flower Show 2020, I send my best wishes to all those associated with the Royal Horticultural Society.
My family and I have always enjoyed visiting the Show, and I know that your Members and Supporters will be disappointed that they are unable to attend in person this year.
As Patron of the Royal Horticultural Society, I was pleased to hear that you will be providing gardening advice and virtual sessions on your website, from Monday 18th to Saturday 23rd May.
I am sure that my grandmother, Queen Mary, who first attended the Chelsea Flower Show in 1916, would be delighted that many people today have an enthusiasm for horticulture, and that gardening remains a popular pastime in the United Kingdom.
As you adapt to the present circumstances, I hope you find this unique event enjoyable and interesting”
The message was signed Elizabeth R.
The Chelsea Flower Show is run by gardening charity, the Royal Horticultural Society. The Queen has been its patron since 1952.
