19 May 2009 - Queen of all roses - Her Majesty The Queen views Girlguiding's Centenary rose

Ahead of Girlguiding's 100th year celebrations, the organisation's Centenary Rose is all set to be viewed by the public at this year's Chelsea Flower Show.

The Centenary Rose is just one part of Girlguiding's celebrations planned over the next 18 months. Over half a million members across the UK are expected to take part in a whole host of spectacular events ranging from action-packed adventure trips to the organisation's largest scale community project ever in partnership with 19 national and international charities.

And as part of her Royal visit to the show, Her Majesty The Queen - who is a Patron of Girlguiding – also viewed the rose and met with Chief Guide Liz Burnley, Guide Leader Alexa Laurence, from Kent, and young members Rebecca Holland, Rosie Davis and Li Pamnani on Monday 18 May.

Liz Burnley said: 'The Centenary Rose symbolises 100 years of guiding in the UK, 100 years of opportunities for millions of girls of many generations. We are sure that it will prove very popular with many current and former members as a lasting memory of this very special year.'

The rose has been produced by the Hertfordshire-based nursery Harkness Roses, and is a raspberry pink 'all-purpose' plant particularly suitable for gardening beginners.

It will be on view at the Harkness Roses Stand throughout the Chelsea Flower Show which runs until Saturday (23 May).

Fans of the Centenary Rose can order their own - either bare-rooted or planted - by logging on to http://www.roses.co.uk (this link opens in a new window) and clicking on the Girlguiding Centenary Rose link.

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