A VICTORIAN lady enjoys the spring sunshine while daffodils bloom in the scenic surroundings of a premier North Yorkshire home.

The spring flowers at Castle Howard drew the attention of Lady Georgiana, sixth Countess, while she took time out from her usual duties of making visitors aware of the rich and varied heritage of the historic house near Malton.

More than three tonnes of daffodil bulbs are planted in the Castle Howard grounds, and include a wide variety including King Alfred, Rembrandt and Golden Harvest.

The arrival of the daffodils is a sign that summer is on its way and many regular visitors have been waiting for their return. All over the estate flowers are starting to appear.

Lady Georgiana - actually Kay Inman - can usually be found among the historic "characters" at Castle Howard. Hailing from the year 1855, she mainly chats about her 12 children, including her son, the seventh Earl of Carlisle.

Updated: 10:12 Friday, March 21, 2003