TAUNTON Flower Show is staying put in Vivary Park - but it will cost more to get in.

There had been fears that the annual extravaganza would have to move to a new venue after Taunton Deane Borough Council hiked its charges to use the park.

Show chairman Adrian Prior-Sankey made the announcement that Vivary Park would still host the event after 166 years to members at the annual meeting.

He said: "Following further negotiations with Taunton Deane Borough Council, the directors have stated their intent to hold the show at Vivary Park for the foreseeable future.

"This reassurance comes with a health warning as the council were not able to issue any guarantees that the formula for calculating the charge imposed by the council in 2017 will be maintained from year to year.

"It is regrettable that a measure of uncertainty remains, but the proposed merger of Taunton Deane Borough Council with West Somerset Council means that in a few years’ time we will be dealing with a new landlord.

"We will need to keep the situation under review but can state with confidence that the show will take place in the park in 2018 and 2019."

A significant consequence of the council’s charge is an increase in the ticket price on both days of the show.

Vice chairman Nigel Handbury said: "Despite our best efforts to attract more sponsorship to offset the increase in our overall costs and the very good attendances at last year’s event, we have had no option but to pass on the council’s charge to our visitors and traders.

"The good news for loyal visitors is that ticket prices will be discounted in the coming months.

"This means that a ticket for Saturday costing £13 will be available for the discounted price of £10 in advance. Young people under 18 will still be admitted free.

"The online ticket office will be available soon."

Organisers are currently seeking enthusiasts to help co-ordinate a team of volunteers.

Full details of the 2018 show including ticket offers and volunteering opportunities can be found by clicking here.