RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2021 News

 

The delay of the state's important flower show has meant a flower power tribute to the NHS will be offered to Oxfordshire's hospice patients instead.

An NHS tribute garden called 'Finding Our Way' was due to be presented at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, supported by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Oxford.

But now the Chelsea flower show has been adjourned until September for the 1st time in its history, £2,000-worth of roses due to appear in the garden are going spare.

The flowers have now been donated to two of Oxfordshire's hospices: Sobell House in Oxford, and Katharine House Hospice in Banbury.

The project was maintained by Brian Ashdown, volunteer head gardener based at Katharine House Hospice, who facilitated with the designs and the planting of the roses at both sites, as well as being assisted by several volunteer gardeners.

Diane Gardner

Diane Gardner, CEO at Sobell House, said: “This is a really lovely addition to our gardens. The roses are beautiful and will provide an abundance of fragrance and color in the summer months”.

"We are incredibly grateful to receive them.”

“It has been wonderful to see our patients enjoying the gardens, especially in the finer weather, which helps make their time in our care the best it can be.”

Trevor Johnson, CEO at Katharine House, also welcomed the donation of the roses.

He said: “This is a wonderful gift. Spending time in the garden has so many benefits for physical and mental health and wellbeing.

"As we celebrate our 30th anniversary later this year, the 75 rose bushes we have received are a perfect addition to our gardens. I am sure they will be enjoyed by all at our hospice for many years to come.”

Professor John Frater, a consultant at OUH, is part of the Chelsea garden team and was involved in arranging the donations. He said: “We’re so pleased that these roses have found two excellent homes. After the arrangements changed for the flower show, we found ourselves with nearly 100 rose bushes on our hands, and wanted to find somewhere they’d be appreciated.

"I do hope both patients and staff manage to get some time to sit and enjoy them, and I’m really grateful for everyone’s help in getting them planted.”

You can buy easily Chelsea Flower Show Tickets from www.ticketapt.com at discounted prices.