BBC Gardening and Good Food shows at Birmingham NEC

Summer has really started with the arrival of the BBC's annual Gardening and Good Food shows at Birmingham's NEC.

Celebrity gardeners and cooks will thrill tens of thousands of fans from the West Midlands during two major shows at Birmingham's NEC.

Gardeners' World Live and the BBC Good Food Show Summer will run from June 15-19 at the giant arena.

Gardeners' World Live brings the popular TV programme to life and fans can watch live demonstrations from their favourite gardening experts including Monty Don and Alan Titchmarsh in the Gardeners' World Magazine Theatre.

They can also pick up expert advice from the Gardeners' World magazine team in free theatre sessions.

Event spokeswoman Ginny Braysmith said: "Access to the top gardening experts is what makes this show so special.

"We've got a top line-up of experts including Monty Don, Alan Titchmarsh, Carol Klein and Joe Swift, plus Adam Pasco and the Gardeners' World Magazine team, sharing their in-depth expert knowledge.

"These entertaining sessions are hosted by garden designer, writer and broadcaster James Alexander Sinclair.

"We're thrilled to welcome BBC Radio 4's Gardeners' Question Time back to BBC Gardeners' World Live for 2011. The team will be answering questions in live Q&A sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, in the Gardeners' World Magazine Theatre."

Big name chefs will be on hand at the BBC Good Food Show Summer.

Ms Braysmith added: "The show has it all. From speciality and artisan producers and fresh local produce to seasonal live cooking demonstrations, you'll find plenty of summer recipe inspiration."

The event will feature Saturday Kitchen Live, hosted by TV's James Martin, with celebrity guests taking part in Food Heaven and Hell and the fiercely competitive Omelette Challenge. John Torode, Gregg Wallace and a host of familiar faces will also takepart in live 'cook-offs'.

There will also be the chance to find out about summer recipes from Rachel Allen and James Martin, who will create their favourite summer dishes live on stage using seasonal ingredients.

Ms Braysmith added: "Visitors will be able to discover summer food and drink you won't find on the high street from regional producers and stock up on homemade goodies ideal for alfresco entertaining – or buy regional cheeses, pickles and wines, and invite your friends to lunch.

"Whether you want a traditional picnic hamper or state-of-the-art kitchen gadgets, you'll find them at the show.

"There's an unrivalled selection of high quality food and drink to choose from and exclusive show bargains make perfect presents."

To book, visit www.bbcgoodfoodshow.com, call 0844 581 1341 or visit www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com

By Andy Richardson