New Garden Harlow Carr education centre

The Royal Horticultural Societys (RHS) £3.3 million education centre at its Garden Harlow Carr site has opened its doors for the first time.

Said to be one of the greenest buildings in Britain, the Bramall Learning Centre was opened by Blue Peter Gardener Chris Collins last week with help from the pupils of Beckwinshaw Community Primary School.

The two-storey building benefits from a number of energy-saving technologies, such as sun pipes which channel natural light into its rooms.

It also has solar panels and a wind turbine which allows it to generate its own electricity and limits the impact on the environment.

The facility will be used to provide education for more than 10,000 youngsters per year and will further boost Garden Harlow Carrs reputation as one of the countrys top horticultural sites.

"It was a pleasure to have Chris Collins joining us to celebrate the buildings official opening as he shares our passion for inspiring children to get involved with gardening as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle," explained Harlow Carr boss Liz Thwaite.

Meanwhile, RHS sweet pea subcommittee chairman Jim McDonald recently suggested that visitors to Garden Wisley check out the Trials Fields floral delights.