‘Paradise’ takes bronze at Tatton

CLOSER to home . . . the Christie’s garden

A PURPLE paradise where cancer patients can take time out from their treatment has scooped a bronze medal at the RHS Tatton flower show.

And people who can’t make it to the horticultural extravaganza will soon be able to see the garden, created by the Christie Hospital, in Oldham.

That’s because it will be replicated at the heart of the new £17 million radiotherapy centre currently under construction at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

The garden’s theme is “closer to home” to reflect the fact that local cancer patients will no longer have to travel to the Christie in South Manchester. Designed by Andrew Walker, it is a place where patients can relax.

A delighted Amanda Borg, head of community fund-raising at Christie’s, said: “We’re thrilled that our garden has scooped an award. It looks absolutely fantastic and is getting a lot of positive comments from visitors. Huge thanks go to Andy for all his work and for battling on despite the torrential downpours we’ve had over the past week.

“The Tatton flower show is always an excellent event and helps us raise vital funds for extra patient services and research.

“We’ll be here till Sunday so I really hope as many people as possible will come and visit us all, see our garden and find out more about what we do.”

The radiotherapy unit will treat 70 people a day when it opens at the Royal Oldham Hospital next year — the first of a network of Christie units in the North-West.

It is the seventh year in a row that the world-famous cancer hospital has entered the competition which showcases smaller gardens.

Bolton-based Andy said: “It was a pleasure to work with the Christie again this year and I’m thrilled that the garden has been so well received.

“The theme that runs through the garden is relaxation. I chose a blend of subtle flower forms and foliage, along with minimalist landscaping to provide a calming and relaxing space for visitors.

The 11th annual RHS event at Tatton Park runs until Sunday and and also includes a water garden show feature which Oldham parks apprentices Sean Rainford and Lawrence Maxwell helped to create.

It is packed with inspirational ideas for gardeners of all levels, from beginners to green-fingered experts.