WHEN she was born, Yellow Submarine topped the charts and flower power was at its height. But, unlike most hippies, Roxy doesn't look a day older than she did in those heady days of 1966.

With good reason. Roxy is a campervan who has just undergone a face lift to make her look like new. Now she is about to take a starring role at the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show, to help NSPCC garden designer Susanne Guthrie with her debut display.

Susanne, from Ampleforth, bought Roxy in 2008 and has just completed a nuts and bolts restoration. She says her iconic campervan will symbolise the happy end to a childhood journey, from fear and darkness to safety and hope, in the garden.

“I have designed gardens before, but not professionally," Susanne says. "When the NSPCC said they would like to raise their profile with a display at Harrogate Flower Show I was delighted to get involved and recruited Roxy to help put across the charity’s message.”

The event runs from September 12 to 14. New for 2014 is Inspiration Street which will feature small-scale designs for tricky front gardens, set against the backdrop of a traditional street scene.

Other attractions include displays by almost 100 top plant nurseries, a celebration of all things apple, giant veg competition and Britain’s biggest exhibition by specialist gardening groups featuring over 5,000 beautiful autumn blooms.

Harrogate's autumn flower show was last-year rated in the top three UK garden events by Which? but centre stage this year will undoubtedly belong to Roxy .

“A show garden is a great way to tell a story for many charities and organisations, who want to capture the public’s imagination," says

Show Director Nick Smith "I'm sure Roxy will be an extremely popular attraction for visitors to the show and there is certainly no better place for her to make her come back."

Tickets for Friday and Saturday are £13.50 when purchased before September 2; £16.00 on the gate. Sunday is £12.00 in advance or £14.50 on the gate. Under 16s go free when accompanied by an adult.

Book on line at www.flowershow.org.uk or call 01423 546157.