It was celebrations all round as the garden club at Lynn’s hospital was awarded silver at the Sandringham Flower Show.
Last week, ‘The Courtyard Gardeners’ from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital were commended for their miniature garden at the popular event – an impressive accolade on their first time there.
The 1.5sqm garden design was cottage-themed and include a variety of plants and flowers including pink hydrangeas, red dahlias and, with a nod to their healthcare links, a Nye Bevan NHS Rose.
The miniature gardens are always a big hit at the annual event and draw a lot of interest and admiration.
Speaking last Thursday, Tracy Woodhouse, service manager at the QEH and head courtyard gardener, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded the silver award in yesterday’s garden competition.
“We feel immensely honoured and privileged and we’re incredibly grateful to the staff at the QEH who donated the flowers and plants used in the display.”
The Courtyard Garden is an important well-being tool for staff at the hospital, providing an enjoyable place to relax through gardening – especially when they feel the need for a break during their busy working day.
It is maintained entirely by staff rather than hospital contract gardeners. The Courtyard Gardeners meet regularly during lunch breaks and their own time to keep it in tip-top condition.
Efforts have seen hundreds of bulbs planted and raised beds packed with impactful annuals that attract pollinators.