NEW ENGLAND in America has always been famous for its dazzling displays of autumn glory – but just look at what’s happening in Hampshire this year.

Rare weather patterns throughout the year have produced the most spectacular combination of colours seen in the New Forest since the late 1920s. Huge swathes of the ancient woodland are sporting a magical mix of green, gold and red, delighting residents and tourists alike.

Tourism chiefs are reporting a significant increase in the number of autumn visitors thanks to the riot of colour.

High rainfall, lack of frost and the absence of autumnal gales are thought to be responsible for the magnificent mosaic that has appeared almost overnight.

The Forestry Commission, which manages 145 square miles of woods and heathland in the area, says the seasonal scenes are better than ever.

Forester Richard Burke said: “The leaves in the Forest appear to be brighter this year and they’re certainly putting on a spectacular display.

“We’re fortunate not to have experienced high winds. The leaves are still on the trees when they change colour.”

Some of the best displays are to be seen at the Bolderwood Ornamental Drive, Blackwater Arboretum and the award-winning Exbury Gardens.

Nigel Philpott, the gardens’ commercial manager, said: “Exbury’s autumn blaze always stops me in my tracks but this year it’s simply staggering.

“The gorgeous colours are probably the best for 80 years. Experts say you’ve got to go back to 1929, when the weather patterns were very similar to those in 2010.”

The heavy rain that fell in late summer is thought to be partly responsible for the kaleidoscope of colour.

Tree experts say August and September were mild and moist, allowing trees to produce plenty of sugar and starch.

The two substances are stored in special cells known as carotenoids, which produce the vibrant yellows, golds and oranges seen in autumn.

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