Lexington florist’s van stolen while making Valentine’s Day deliveries

On the biggest day of the year for most flower shops, one Lexington florist was left scrambling after its delivery van, apparently loaded with flower arrangements, was stolen.

Michler’s Florist, Greenhouses and Garden Design said in a Facebook post that one of its vans was delivering flowers on the University of Kentucky campus Tuesday when someone drove off in it.

“If you ordered flowers for delivery in the campus area please we apologize for the delay as we remake all your Valentine’s Flowers,” the company said in a Facebook post Tuesday afternoon. “If you spot a white Chevy Express Van that says MICHLER’S tonight please call the police and us!”

The vehicle was reported stolen from outside Ball Hall, a residence hall on campus, at 2:15 p.m., said University of Kentucky spokesman Jay Blanton.

The Lexington Police Department later recovered the van, he said.

Valentine’s Day is the biggest holiday of the year for the floral industry. Last year, 22 percent of Americans bought flowers as Valentine gifts, according to the American Society of Florists. More than 80 percent bought roses.