The name of the nationally recognised Shrewsbury Flower Show could be changed after a proposal put forward in a private meeting, the Chronicle can reveal.
Members of Shropshire Horticultural Society, which runs the Flower Show, discussed changing its name to the Shrewsbury Show at a committee meeting last week.
The confidential information was given to the Chronicle by a number of committee members, who wish to remain anonymous.
The issue will be discussed in depth again at a future meeting.
It is understood the idea was proposed as some members feel the show has evolved over time to appeal to a larger cross-section of visitors – who are interested in more than just the floral side.
The origins of the show and the horticultural society can be traced back to the summer of 1836, when a ‘carnation and gooseberry show’ was staged in the Frankwell area of the town.
In the 1970s, its name was changed from the Shrewsbury Musical and Floral Fete to Shrewsbury Flower Show. The idea was originally put forward around five years ago but was rejected by committee members.
A member said: “It has been mooted that the possibility of altering the name is to be discussed. It was mentioned at the last meeting a week ago but we’ve yet to discuss it properly and it will be a prolonged effort over a period of time.”
Russell Mulford, a former committee member of the Shropshire Horticultural Society, said: “The idea has been suggested before around five years ago but it was over-ruled and rejected at the time because it has always been regarded as an integral part of the title.
“Certainly the die-hards are reluctant for that to change and also in my view it would lose a bit of its bite.”
The Shropshire Horticultural Society declined to comment when contacted by the Chronicle.
By David Seadon