Devonshire garden project kick-started by grant

A Devonshire garden which has fallen into a state of disrepair could become a source of inspiration for local nature lovers.

English Heritage recently gave the thumbs up to a £200,000 grant to allow volunteers to revamp Lupton House and its 19th-century Italianate garden, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) reported.

The building will eventually be used as an events centre and premises for local businesses, while the grounds will be able to be enjoyed by the public.

Volunteers are currently going through the painstaking process of trying to come up with plans that match the original look and feel of the garden.

However, a lack of documentary evidence is proving problematic and all they have to go on are a few old images of the site, an oil painting by William Callow and whatever archaeological evidence that is found at Lupton House.

The Grade II-listed building featured an Italianate garden with decorative paths, balustrades and a fountain.

It also has an octagonal aviary, which has been empty and in a state of neglect for approximately 20 years.

In other news, the RHS is set to host its London Autumn Harvest Show next month, which will feature displays from Chelsea Flower Show winner Interflora.