TWO flower arrangers are preparing for the biggest competition of their lives.

Pamela Gambon, from Teignmouth, and Margaret Cawood, of Dawlish, are taking part in an international show at Torquay's Riviera Centre from September 22 to 24.

Both are members of Teignmouth Flower Arranging Society, and Margaret said they were looking forward to the challenge.

'It is very exciting. We have competed in shows in this country, particularly the Devon County Show, but nothing on this scale before.

'It will be a real experience for us, and we are now planning our entry.'

The event is the annual show of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies, which is paying a rare visit to the south west.

About 500 people will take part, including entries from Kenya, Malta, Ireland, India and Pakistan, and flowers worth about £100,000 will be on display.

'To see anything remotely like it, you would have to travel to the Chelsea show,' said press officer Margaret Marriott.

'A lot of people think flower arranging is confined to older women with time on their hands, but they would be very wrong.

'There are entries from men, women and children of all ages.

'The competition is fierce, and the prizes hotly contested.'

Among the eye-catching entries this year is a cupcake theme for junior classes.

Margaret added: 'There are 22 adult classes in every size and hue.

While some competitors aspire to a career in floristry, other members find their way to the global spotlight, arranging flowers for key services and state occasions.

'We were delighted when one of our members was asked to help with the flowers for the royal wedding in April, and others decorated Westminster Abbey for the visit of the Pope.'