He's a wizard to many and he helped wave his magic over a preview for a floral festival in Kent.

Actor Sir Ian McKellen, who plays Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, popped along to Leeds Castle near Maidstone for an evening which heralded the start of its Festival of Flowers: Autumn Glory.

The festival, which runs until Sunday (September 28) has been led by head florist Louise Roots and multi award winning floral designer, Mig Kimpton.

At the preview evening, guests including Sir Ian, were welcomed by Mr Kimpton, before being treated to an exclusive preview of the decorated castle rooms.

More than 25 talented floral designers, local florists and amateur flower arrangers have created floral designs on the theme of the glory of the Kent garden, inspired by the poetry of Kipling and Keats.

In the castle courtyard, floral representation of the influences of both poets has been created.

Kipling spent his informative years in India, and this is illustrated at the far end of the courtyard.

Keats spent his final years in Italy. One of his famous poems Ode to a Nightingale is purportedly written whilst he was sitting under a plum tree.

Sir Ian complimented castle gardener Sam Wiesbauer for the creative design describing it as "intuitive and intelligent."

Children can join in the festival fun with a floral themed I Spy trail while visitors of all ages will enjoy the woodland walk. There are also talks, demonstrations and workshops. For more details visit www.leeds-castle.co.uk