Head gardener’s three decades of work honoured

THE head gardener at a Cornish estate who has spent 30 years developing its beautiful grounds has been honoured by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Jaimie Parsons, head gardener at Caerhays Castle Gardens, received an Associate of Honour medal at the RHS People Awards which celebrate individuals who have made outstanding contributions to horticulture and gardening.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Jaimie who continues to dedicate his career to making Caerhays Castle Gardens one of the country’s most admired estates,” said Lucinda Rimmington, marketing manager at Caerhays Estate. “Jaimie has worked at Caerhays for 30 years alongside owner Charles Williams, overseeing the continuous development of the magnificent 140-acre garden.

“It’s tricky to put into words how much Jaimie has shaped the landscape here at Caerhays over three decades. His sheer hard work and passion is a credit to him, and Jaimie continues to be the biggest inspiration to us all.

“He cares so much about his work, contributing to the longevity of the estate through his unwavering commitment and pride.”

Mr Parsons started work at Caerhays in 1994 taking the position of head gardener in 1996.

“Jaimie has been very involved in our work with the National Collection of Magnolias,” Mr Williams said. “He has created and registered many new hybrid magnolias which are growing in the gardens at Caerhays and are now for sale at Burncoose Nurseries.

“There is no corner of the grounds at Caerhays that Jaimie has not left his wonderful mark on, and you only have to look around to see what a magnificent contribution he and his team have made to the estate.”

An Associate of Honour is awarded to those who have given distinguished service to the practice of horticulture during the course of their working career. The honour is held for life and the number of associates may not exceed 100 at any one time.

Mr Parsons said: “I feel very honoured and proud to have received a RHS Associate of Honour award. It’s a privilege to have worked for 30 years at Caerhays Castle Gardens, and I can say I’m as passionate now, as I was when I first started back in 1994.

“Throughout my career, I’ve met some very inspiring and knowledgeable people and even after all this time, I learn new things every single day which gives me so much joy.”

Caerhays now has an international reputation for camellias and rhododendrons and is home to a worldfamous National Magnolia Collection.

The gardens are open until June 16. For tickets see visit.caerhays.co.uk

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There is no corner of the grounds at Caerhays that Jaimie has not left his wonderful mark on

Charles Williams

⨠ Jaimie Parsons was awarded an Associate of Honour medal at the RHS People Awards