Flower growers scenting success

Flower selling has been part of the islands' economy for centuries

A postal flower service on the Isles of Scilly says it is beating the credit crunch because of recent media coverage of the islands.

Churchtown Farm on St Martin's says its sales for narcissi are up nearly 20% despite the tough economic climate.

Its flowers are grown outside to take full advantage of the unique mild sub-tropical climate in the Scillies.

Ben Julian, a partner at the farm, says programmes like the BBC's An Island Parish have helped business.

"Also there's an strong history of people buying flowers during recession times because they are basically an affordable luxury," said Mr Julian.

Flower selling has been an essential part of the islands' economy for centuries and this year's narcissi crop bloomed earlier than usual this year - thanks to a very warm couple of weeks in June.