Thousands of people headed for the coast for one of Norfolk's and nature's greatest displays.

Like the bees that pollinate the flowers, visitors were drawn to the spectacular sight of the rhododendrons and azaleas at Sheringham Park.

They were greeted by a kaleidoscope of colourful blooms jostling to show themselves off - from showy scarlet to pretty pink and the more demur white flowers.

And while farmers and gardeners have been less than impressed by the cold and prolonged spring, it has been a boon for National Trust-owned Sheringham Park, ensuring that the famous flowers' season is extended.

People of all ages visited the park, which was the historic seat of the Upcher family and whose grounds were designed by the famous landscape artist Humphry Repton in 1912. There are more than 80 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas.

Scores of dogs joined the throng as their owners took advantage of a rare outbreak of warm, dry weather.

Some people climbed to the top of the viewing tower to see the rhododendrons spread out below them like an undulating and colourful carpet.

Other strolled and took photographs of the blooms as they meandered through the park and down towards Sheringham Hall.

? To see more photographs of the blooms, see tomorrow's EDP.