Around 60 exhibitors have signed up for the show, and organiser Marwood Events director Steven Callaghan said he expected at least 1,000 visitors.

The free Hard Landscaping Show - which is at Coventry's Ricoh Arena from 24-25 March - is in its first year.

As well as exhibitors, the event includes a project awards competition, a garden design "artisan avenue", live demonstrations and a series of seminars.

Also among those already signed up to visit are councils, public and private utility companies and highway maintenance firms.

HW will be leading a seminar at 2pm on 24 March exploring the use of planting in landscaping schemes.

Vistors are invited to put questions to a panel of speakers during the session.

The line-up is:

  • Association of Professional Landscapers chief executive Jason Lock
  • BALI chairman elect Paul Cowell
  • Wyevale Nurseries sales and marketing director Doug Reade
  • Scotscape managing director Angus Cunningham

Questions can be emailed in advance to magda.ibrahim@haymarket.com.