MARVELLOUS 'mums and dazzling dahlias were on display at a specialist flower show in Newport.

The Annual Early Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Show drew a huge field in its 48th year.

Judges inspecting the blooms in over 40 classes at the Beechwood Presbyterian Church Hall, in Chepstow Road, described the standard as "excellent".

Show manager Ivan Jessop said: "People like growing and developing chrysanthemums, but the ultimate aim for the show is to instil interest, especially in younger people."

Jenny Bevan, of Newport, took overall prize for best floral art exhibition after winning two first prizes and a second.

She said: "The judging started at 10.30 this morning, and I was here from 8.30, putting my exhibition together. I've been running on fear since then.

"But it's absolutely wonderful to win. Everyone here has worked hard on this - it's not just me.

"People should come down and meet us, we're not stuffy and we have good fun."

The Late Chrysanthemum Show will be held on Thursday, October 30.

* In the picture: Judge Mark ashton is dwarfed by blooms.