The most talented florists under 27 years of age from around Europe competed for the title of junior florist champion at the Volčji Potok Arboretum in Slovenia. The title of the best florist went to Benoit Barbin from France.

Anian Friedrich from Germany won second place and Danish florist Karoline Brask Pedersen was third. The sole Slovenian competitor, Maša Troha, ranked seventh among the twelve competitors.

The competitors had five tasks ranging from a free arrangement titled Trees Are My Friends to a bridal bouquet on the theme of the legend of red and white roses and a summer dreams hand-tied bouquet.

Sustainability and a 'back to basics' approach to floristry were prominent themes as the organisers opted for a zero-kilometre approach, meaning that the competitors got all the flowers at the Arboretum.

Simon Ogrizek, the president of the international florist organisation Florint and head of the florist section of the Slovenian Chamber of Trade Crafts and Small Business, said the young florists created amazing designs.

"We must remain creative and at the cutting edge, we must respect our culture and history and continue to promote flowers in everyday life," he said.

The competition is a major event in the florist industry and many past winners of the championship have gone on to become internationally acclaimed floral artists.

The creations will be on show at the Arboretum until 3 September.