A prison in Lancashire has won a prestigious award for its gardens, described by judges as ‘excellent’ and ‘scrupulously tidy’.
MHP Wymott wins Award for its Gardens
HMP Wymott, in the village of Ulnes Walton near Leyland, Preston, has a population of 1,126 prisoners, 50 of whom work on the prison’s extensive gardens. It beat four other finalists to scoop the RHS Windlesham Trophy, given to the best prison garden in England and Wales. Other finalists were HMP Albany on the Isle of Wight which came second, HMP Parkhurst, also on the Isle of Wight, HMP Eastwood Park in Gloucestershire, and HMP Thorn Cross in Cheshire.
RHS President Sir Nicholas Bacon presented the trophy, a specially-engraved Green Goddess fire engine bell, to prisoners and staff at a ceremony at the prison. ‘The first impressions were excellent and the standard was maintained throughout the visit,’ said lead RHS judge Robert Haslam. ‘A wide range of plants were used, displaying evidence of thoroughly planned designs to create a range of feature gardens, each creating a real impact.’
Staff & Prisoners delighted with the Award
He went on to praise the way the prisoners engaged with the garden and showed a focus, pride and interest in what they were doing.
HMP Wymott’s acting governor, Nicki Smith, said staff and prisoners were ‘delighted’ with the award.
