Dorset Sunflower Trail opening a week early
The plants have bloomed sooner than expected at Maiden Castle Farm
The crazy weather we've been having so far this summer in Dorset has meant an early opening for one local attraction.
The Dorset Sunflower Trail is allowing visitors from today (Friday 28th July) - a week sooner than expected.
They're opening early at Maiden Castle Farm near Dorchester as the sunflowers are already coming to bloom.
This will be the third season for the Trail, with people able to walk among the flowers as they grow in the fields.
There'll also be sunflower themed events in Dorchester town centre and in Poundbury while the Trail is open.
There'll be sunflower sculptures suspended across South Street, planters featuring bright flowers, and eco-friendly Sunflower paintings on the ground.
Sunflower-themed shop windows are also being created while many Dorchester’s eateries are selling limited edition sunflower bakes.
Half of the profits from the Dorset Sunflower Trail are given to charity - with this year's cause being the Special Care Baby Unit at Dorset County Hospital.