Floral tribute to new millennium

Sunflowers are likely to feature in the exhibition

More than 20,000 visitors are expected to attend an international floral extravaganza in Northern Ireland to celebrate the new millennium.

Floral Design 2000 is taking place in the ornate rooms of Dromantine House, a conference and retreat centre, near Newry in County Down.

Many of the world's leading flower arrangers are taking part in competitions during the cross-community event which also entails a craft fair.

The event got underway on Tuesday 16 May and is running until Monday 22 May with about 120 international floral artists expected to attend.

These people have come from over 22 countries to participate in master classes, demonstrations and workshops.

The beautiful Lotus flower

Among the countries being represented are Japan, Pakistan, Uruguay, Trinidad and Tobago, Swaziland, South Africa as well as America and many European countries.

Gala demonstrations were held in Belfast on Thursday and Friday.

The church and magnificent house at Dromantine dates back to the 14th century and is currently home to the Society of African Missions.

It is open to the general public until Sunday, during the festival of flowers, and will be decorated throughout by the international floral artists.

Also on view will be the exhibits in each of the competition categories.

The festival will also include a catering marquee, a craft fair and many trade stands will all sorts of flower and garden related items as well as lots of activities suitable for children.

The superior of Dromantine, Father Eamonn Finnegan, has joined forces with Presbyterian minister, the Rev William McMillan of Dunmurry in County Antrim in this unique venture.

The Dunmurry clergyman is universally respected as a floral artist and has travelled extensively throughout the world, gathering numerous awards for his skill as a floral artist.

The event is being supported by the Newry and Mourne Millennium Company.