Celebrity gardener visits Battle

CONNORS BRIGHTON 01273 486851
PICTURE BY NIGEL BOWLES
Southern Water In Bloom 2014
Blue Peter gardener Chris Collins and Southern Waters Andy Shaddick visit Tha Almonry Gardens in Battle where the met In Bloom Judges Ken Turner and Maggie Whittaker they were joined by mayor Margaret Kiloh and gardeners SUS-140723-114139001 — CONNORS BRIGHTON 01273 486851 PICTURE BY NIGEL BOWLES Southern Water In Bloom 2014 Blue Peter gardener Chris Collins and Southern Waters Andy Shaddick visit Tha Almonry Gardens in Battle where the met In Bloom Judges Ken Turner and Maggie Whittaker they were joined by mayor Margaret Kiloh and gardeners SUS-140723-114139001

Chris, who is best known for tending to the Blue Peter garden, was accompanied by South & South East in Bloom competition judges Ken Turner and Maggie Whitaker.

The site has been entered into the small park category of the Southern Water-sponsored competition, which looks at horticulture and gardening, environmental responsibility and community participation.

Marilyn Waughman, Chair of Beautiful Battle, said: “We’ve entered In Bloom for a number of years and won gold several times. We enter because we’re proud of what we do, how it looks and we want everyone else to see it. People love it here and we only ever get compliments from visitors and local residents.”

Chris said: “I’ve visited Battle before to do talks to the horticulture club, so know first hand how dedicated they are and it shows. I particularly like the courtyard gardens as they’re small and secluded and show the effort put in by all involved in Beautiful Battle.”

Andy Shaddick, Public Affairs Manager at Southern Water, also attended on the day.

He said: “Chris Collins and the In Bloom team really enjoyed looking around the stunning gardens. We wish everyone involved good luck in the competition and in the future.”

Judging is taking place throughout July and winners will be announced in September at an awards ceremony at The Amex in Falmer.