ANTIQUES ROADSHOW will arrive in Wrexham next week, bringing with it another boost to the local tourism economy.

Presenter Fiona Bruce and the team of experts from the BBC One show are getting ready to welcome thousand of guests to Erddig Hall on Thursday, July 26, for free advice and valuations.

Glyn Smith, Erddig’s head gardener, has been working to keep the plants and flowers looking their best ahead of the big day.

He said: “From theme, to design concept, to the growing and planting, has been a thought-provoking and humbling experience.

“I think it has been the most embracing summer bedding scheme we have been involved in in all my years as head gardener.

Glyn will be giving several garden talks during the event, sharing with visitors Erddig garden’s remarkable journey from dereliction to distinction.

The event is expected to attract in the region of 4,000 visitors.

Wrexham destination manager, Joe Bickerton, said: “The BBC Antiques Roadshow presents a fantastic opportunity for Erddig to showcase what an asset it is for Wrexham County Borough.

“In the last six years, the tourism economy has grown by almost 40 per cent here in Wrexham and events such as this play a significant part in achieving this growth.

“Although the BBC is only here for a day, we anticipate that the economic benefit for this area will stretch into hundreds of thousands via visitor spends in the wider area and hotel stays.”

Robert Murphy, series producer of Antiques Roadshow, said: “We are looking forward to filming at Erddig.

“It’s a much-loved property with great character and we’re looking forward to seeing cherished objects and hearing personal stories from the people of Wales and beyond.

“It’s a great, free, family day out and you can see how we make one of BBC One’s most popular programmes.

“Our team of experts are on hand to help visitors discover the hidden history of their objects - you never know, it might just be your item that turns out to be something very special and potentially very valuable!”