TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh becomes judge seeking best garden in care home contest

TV gardening presenter Alan Titchmarsh is the judge of a new competition to find the best care home garden.

Alan Titchmarsh has agreed to be a judge in Balhousie in Bloom, a new competition taking place across Balhousie Care Group’s 26 care homes.

As the flowers bloom this summer in care homes across the UK, out pops Alan Titchmarch to encourage care home residents to get out and garden.

Care home gardens have become 'even more special'

Refering to the pandemic and the impact of lockdowns, Alan Titchmarsh said: “Over the past year, our gardens and outdoor spaces have brought more joy to people than ever, offering a sanctuary, a place to relax and be closer to nature, and a place for activity and exercise.

“In care homes they have become even more special".

Alan Titchmarsh’s television gardening programmes include ‘Love Your Garden’, which shows him busy digging with his team to makeover domestic gardens.

Mr Titchmarsh said: “It is wonderful to see residents and staff across Balhousie Care Group celebrating their gardens through Balhousie in Bloom.

"I’m delighted to be a judge for this competition and can’t wait to see the finalists’ great work.”

Balhousie care home operator, which operates in six regions of Scotland, said it was “thrilled to bits” to have Alan’s backing as judge.

Jill Kerr, group chief executive at Balhousie Care Group, said: “Many of our residents and staff take a lot of pleasure from spending time and working on our homes’ gardens and this is a lovely way to celebrate the joy this brings. It’s inspiring to see all our homes embracing the competition."

Balhousie Luncarty care home has received donations of plants from local retailers Aldi, B&Q, Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Lidl and Morrisons stores.

Balhousie Luncarty care home manager Cheryl Banks is remaining secretive about the home's garden design.

Cheryl Banks said: “All I can say is that our new garden will be a celebration not only of the care our staff show but also the strength of Balhousie Luncarty’s community links.

"Our home is located right in the heart of Old Luncarty village and has close ties with the local nursery and community groups."

The gardening competition has four categories. Prizes will be awarded for each of the following categories: Staff & Resident Participation; Most Improved Garden; Community Engagement; and Indoor Garden.

Judging for the categories will begin on 21 June and an overall winner will be announced in July.

The winning care home will receive a £500 prize from Balhousie Care Group for its residents’ comfort fund.

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