A space of our own
Lucky wilko prizewinner gets a garden makeover
With nine grandchildren, John Kenny and his wife Bernett always knew their garden would be well used.
But after years of living with worn-down grass and broken solar lights, the Wirral couple were desperate to have an outdoor space they – as well as the grandkids - could enjoy.
John, 60, who owns a security company, said: “We think the world of our children and grandchildren, but it’s fair to say all the paddling pools, football and general play over the years have destroyed the garden.
“With our 40th wedding anniversary approaching, we felt the time was right to do something with it, so when the competition came up and we found out we’d won we couldn’t believe our luck.”
Determined to restore the couple’s garden, the team broke it into two distinct areas. One area where John and Bernett could dine alfresco, and the other area where they could relax and read.
To create the lovely outdoor dining space the patio was cleaned up and a Wilko Mosaic Bistro set (£100) added. Wilko Hanging Wall Baskets (50cm, £7 each) were hung on the side fence and Wilko Expanding Wood Trellis (180 x 60cm, £3.50 each) installed allowing the Clematis plants to climb and create a wall of colour once they grow and blossom. A diverse selection of pots, including Wilko Round Madrid Planter (£8) were placed on the patio adding a touch of tropical elegance.
The second area, a reading nook, was created in the back corner of the garden. Garden beds were dug out and bordered with Wilko Log Edging (96 x 15cm £3.75 per roll) which was painted with Wilko Cedar Red Timbercare paint (£4.25) to match the red brick wall. An array of flowers such as Achiliea, Dianthus and Impatiens were planted in both the beds and hanging baskets, turning the bare garden into a painters pallet of colour. A luxurious Wilko Rattan Effect Garden Day Bed (was £300, now £250) was placed in the corner so the couple could relax during the day. And, to ensure they could continue to enjoy their chill out zone once the sun goes down, the team decorated it with Wilko Butterfly Garden Solar LED Lights (50pk, £10).
John said: “We’re absolutely delighted with how it’s turned out, and amazed at how quickly it took to pull it all together.
“We’ve loved the time the kids have spent in the garden; now finally, Bernette and I can enjoy it too.”