Kilkenny Florist is Blooming Brilliant

Kilkenny florist, Vinny Yeates, has fended off tough opposition to represent Ireland at the grand final of the prestigious Interflora Florist of the Year 2013 competition. During the competition heats Vinny had to create a naturally-inspired bridal design, a small floral tree and a surprise item- a wedding table centrepiece- which was briefed on the day.

Vinny was able to complete one of the items, the bridal design, in advance of the competition but had to construct the other two designs within a set time limit, under the judges' eyes. Vinny, who works at Flowers by Lucy, will join seven other top florists from across the UK to battle it out for the coveted title next year. The final stage of the competition is taking place at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park and will involve working in front of a live audience. Talking about reaching the final stage of the competition Vinny said: 'Getting through the heats was really challenging but now I am very excited to be competing at Tatton Park next year.

I hope I do myself and Ireland proud.' The Interflora Florist of the Year competition is held every two years and gives florists the opportunity to continually develop their exceptional floristry skills and creativity; allowing them to stay one step ahead in the industry. To send Interflora flowers in Ireland visit the Interflora website.