THOUSANDS of visitors descended on a park to admire a kaleidoscope of autumnal colours.

At least 5,000 people went to Sheffield Park and Garden on the weekend to witness trees and shrubs displaying a huge range of vibrant colours.

The National Trust property near Uckfield is famous for its breathtaking display of the turn of the season.

Nina Elliot-Newman, the estate’s marketing manager, said: “The park is internationally renowned for its autumnal colours.

“It is very popular at this time of year specifically because of this.

“This time last year it was quite damp so we think our visitor numbers are better now.”

Ms Elliot-Newman said the park’s range of plants from a number of different countries means the splash of bold colours span at least a month.

This year the leaves began to change during the first week of October and are expected to last until November 10.

She said: “This is probably a product of a warm summer.

“Often a cold snap also helps but we have been particularly lucky with lots of warm weather this year.

“The result is a huge range of amazing colours.”

Acer, Nyssa, Liquidambar and Swamp Cypress trees are the stars of the show, and the park is alive with vibrant yellow, orange, red, pink, and even really deep purple leaves bursting through, she said.

The 200-acre park is opening early at the weekends, from 9.30am, until November 2.

The property has organised a Halloween hunt through the half term week for families. The trial allows children to look high and low for a special range of decorated pumpkins around the trees.

A pumpkin competition and best dressed spooky costume contest will also take place with trick or treat prizes to be won.

For information call 01825 790231.