Eye condition doesnt hold Wilf back

It is often said that gardens and gardening are one of lifes simple pleasures – but what if you werent able to see what youd grown and enjoy the wonderful colours of the garden in bloom?

That is the case for Northumberland resident Wilf Robinson, who has been blind since birth but has still become a keen gardener.

"I can tell which flowers are which by dabbing my fingers on them and smelling," he told the Northern Echo.

"The geraniums and African marigolds have a particularly strong smell.

"I have to do a lot by crawling on my hands and knees to make sure I dont fall."

Such is Mr Robinsons skill in the garden that he came in second place in the best hanging gardens category at this years Crook in Bloom.

Mr Robinson, who lost his sight through an eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa, should be an inspiration to all.