In Association with the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment Channel 5’s TV Gardener, David Domoney, has joined forces with The Prince’s Foundation for a second year to officially launch the 2012 ‘Ideal Young Gardeners of the Year’ competition ahead of the Ideal Home Show’s return to London’s Earls Court next March.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural competition, six UK colleges will once again go head-to-head to create inspirational and sustainable show gardens which will all be exhibited in the forecourt of Earls Court during the 104th Ideal Home Show, which runs from March 16th to April 1st 2011.
Last year’s debut gardens, each designed by emerging young talent in the industry, were visited by HRH The Prince of Wales at Earls Court, and Capel Manor College in Middlesex claimed 1st place.
This year the participating colleges will be awarded gold, silver or bronze medals with two further prestigious titles also being awarded for Best At Show & The People’s Choice. This year’s colleges are:
• Askham Byran College, North Yorkshire
• Bridgwater College, Somerset
• Chichester College, Sussex
• Capel Manor, Middlesex
• Shuttleworth College, Bedfordshire
• Writtle College, Essex
Once again the competition will aim to highlight the very best examples of sustainable practice in British garden design amongst student designers. Each college will be given a 5.5m x 4m plot to both plan and design a unique and sustainable garden based on the theme of ‘landcraft techniques in an urban setting.’ A panel industry experts led by Domoney will judge the entries and award the prize medals.
The Prince’s Foundation has set clear guidelines for the competition based on organic and sustainable principles. In addition, each garden should inspire city dwellers, showing just what can be achieved in the most impossible of tight urban locations.
For more details on the 2012 ‘Ideal Young Gardeners Competition’ and the participating colleges visit www.idealhomeshow.co.uk
The Ideal Home Show, London will open its doors for 17 days from 16th March – 1st April 2012, at London’s Earls Court. Tickets can be booked online via www.idealhomeshow.co.uk
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