King signs up David Beckham to his Chelsea flower show team

Ex-footballer to decorate gnome for annual event after organisers lift ban on the ornaments dating back to 1927

Rare roses and stunning irises are usually among the most coveted items at the Chelsea flower show. But this year, the star attraction might be pink, sequined – and decorated by David Beckham.

The former England football captain is co-designing a garden at the May event with King Charles and as part of that effort he has been given a garden gnome to paint. It will be auctioned off for charity.