New kids gardening advisor appointed in north-west

Youngsters in the north-west are to be given some extra assistance in learning about the fun of garden and greenhouse growing.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Andy Cannell has taken up the role of regional campaign for school gardening advisor for the area.

Funded by Manchester airport, the job entails assisting local educational facilities in teaching students about horticulture.

Mr Cannell is now one of four advisors in England, with colleagues also serving Yorkshire and Humber, the east of England and Greater London.

"The regional advisors give schools the support they need to make the most of their resources, space and skills, and to develop a support network of families and engage the local community," explained RHS director of science and learning Simon Thornton Wood.

He added that it is essential to fully integrate the RHS with schools and the wider community to keep the UK’s gardening knowledge base healthy.

Manchester airport community relations manager Wendy Sinfield revealed that the transport hub had struck a three-year deal with the RHS to pay for a qualified horticulturalist to work with local children.

In other news, the RHS recently reported that gardeners are being asked to examine local hedgerows for signs of biodiversity as part of a UK-wide survey.