Wherever possible Somerlap like to support our Somerset community. So when former London Police Officer, Pete Stainer, asked for our help we were only too happy to oblige. Budding horticulturist Pete had grand garden design ideas – he wanted to create a bespoke garden display and showcase it at the Royal Bath and West Show.
Winning garden design
And as it turned out, we were onto a winner… literally! Pete, now a Somerset resident, won the People’s Choice award for his ‘Town Meets Country’ competition garden design (for the second year running).
Pete recently completed a two-year Horticultural course at Bridgwater & Taunton College and entered the competition on its behalf. All entrants were required to create a garden design and concept, source materials and plants, obtain sponsorship, manage budgets and arrange the logistics of transportation to and from the show. Pete’s competition garden was a garden of two halves: one half a formal garden and the other representing the countryside, separated by a fence with a connecting arch.
Somerlap offer a helping hand
Pete approached Somerlap for help with timber supplies. We were delighted to lend him the Picket Fence Panels and Omega Top Arch, which were needed to create the separation between the two halves of the garden. The finished garden design clearly impressed visitors to the show, because it won the ‘People’s Choice’ Award (which is voted for by the public), as well as winning a Silver Gilt from the Judges.
Exciting future
Pete and his wife (who has also completed a horticultural course) are now launching their own gardening business and Pete is grateful for all the support he has received. He said: “Taking part in the Royal Bath and West Show twice has been the highlight of my Horticultural course at Bridgwater & Taunton College. These opportunities would not have been possible without the support and assistance of the College, and sponsors such as Somerlap".
Kevin Bond, Managing Director of Somerlap, said: “Pete’s story proves that you can change career at any age. We were delighted to supply the items which he needed to complete his garden, and wish him every success with his new business venture.”
Planning your own garden design project?
Somerlap have everything you need for a garden design project. We can offer advice on all our timber products, arrange delivery and help with installation. Visit us in Mark and discover what we offer.
Pete Stainer (seated) and his award winning ‘Town Meets Country’ garden design