Long service awards for city gardeners

Three of Plymouth City Council’s most experienced gardeners have received official recognition from The Royal Horticulture Society (RHS).

The three were nominated by the Council to officially recognise all their hard work and dedication in keeping Plymouth looking great.

The Royal Horticulture Society’s long service award is awarded to anyone  who has completed forty years of continuous practical horticulture employment  as a gardener or in a horticulture capacity.

The following three staff have been awarded this medal:

Barry Willmott - 47 years’ experience in horticulture with the council
Brian Deacon - 44 years’ experience in horticulture with the council
Dave Jefferies - 42 years’ experience in horticulture with the council

All three started their careers with Plymouth City Council as apprentice gardeners, before working up through their training until they became qualified Gardeners.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “All our gardeners work hard throughout the year in all weathers to keep Plymouth looking great so it’s fantastic we are able to give these three the recgonition they deserve.

“Barry, Brian and Dave have been involved with all aspects of Horticulture from Carpet Bedding for the City Crest to 3D planted sculptures. They also worked on our Plymouth in Bloom and played a big part in supporting our Europe in Bloom entry.”

The impact the three gardeners have had on Plymouth does not just stop with the job they do, during their collective service of 133 years it is estimated they have supported more than 50 apprentices through their training as they become Plymouth’s gardeners of the future.