Thrive and RNIB have again recognised the UK’s top blind gardeners in this year's Blind Gardener of the Year competition. Some outstanding gardeners, drawn from across the UK, were recognised on 6 November 2008 by Thrive and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) at a celebratory event in London.
Blind Gardener of the Year
Jean Harrington, 82 years, from East Sussex, was awarded first prize for gardening holistically, her innovative approach and for her unique and rational tips and ideas, including the advice “to swallow one’s pride and wear baggy waterproof trousers”.
Seven years ago, Jean was diagnosed with macular degeneration yet she still strives to enjoy her garden. Jean takes particular interest in vegetable growing, recycling, composting and encouraging wildlife into the garden.
Joint second prize was awarded to Elisabeth Jones from London and Andrea Gordon from Swansea.
Young Blind Gardeners of the Year (under 18 years)
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| Elliot with his parents and Lesley-Anne Alexander |
First prize for this award was given to Elliott Roberts from the Impington Village College in Cambridge, for his independence and individuality. Elliott has always gardened with sight loss, but despite difficulties of mobility around the school garden, he continues to enjoy growing herbs and vegetables - and would like to tackle more varieties, from popcorn and pumpkins to fruit and roses.
Second prize was awarded to Rhys Adams from the Market Field School in Colchester and joint third prize was awarded to Liam Fleming and Cory Stobbs from the Highfield School in Wakefield.
Blind Gardening Club or Group of the Year
First prize was awarded to The Meristems Garden Group in Nottinghamshire. For a group that was only formed in March 2007, the judges were particularly impressed with their incredible achievements and passion for gardening.
Second prize has been awarded to The Swail Pottage Group from Surrey and third prize has been awarded to The Cardiff Institute for the Blind.
The Blind Gardener of the Year competition is a celebration of the skills of blind or partially sighted gardeners. It is open to anyone who is blind and partially sighted whether they have just started gardening or have years of experience. The emphasis of the competition moved its focus this year towards sustainable gardening, leading a healthy and active lifestyle and the introduction of a Gardening Club or Group category to bring people together through their love of gardening.
“We were delighted with the high standard of all the entries and the innovation and creativity that the entrants demonstrated.” says Nicola Carruthers, Chief Executive of Thrive. “Their enjoyment of gardening, but also the benefits it can bring, shone through in all the entries we received. The ways they managed to overcome challenges they faced were really quite amazing.”
“We were so impressed with how the winners dealt with the challenges they face, their achievements and their passion for gardening. RNIB supports any project which enables blind or partially sighted people to have choice, dignity and independence. Losing your sight doesn't mean losing your ability to take part in gardening as well as many other activities." said Lesley-Anne Alexander, Chief Executive RNIB.
