A care home has welcomed a new gardener who has already made a significant impact.

Matt Jones has joined Ashlynn Grange, Peterborough, and is set to transform the home's gardens with his passion for horticulture and commitment to sustainability.

Mr Jones's love for gardening began in childhood, nurtured by time spent with his grandfather.

Before joining Ashlynn Grange, he worked at a country park by the River Nene and as a regional gardener overseeing nine care homes.

Recently, Mr Jones helped Ashlynn Grange win an award at the Athena in Bloom 2024 competition for an innovative irrigation system on a timer.

Matt is poised to transform the gardens of Ashlynn Grange for everyone to enjoy Matt is poised to transform the gardens of Ashlynn Grange for everyone to enjoy (Image: Submitted)

He plans to further improve this by incorporating rainwater harvesting and maximising the use of water butts on the property.

Mr Jones is also repurposing old pallets to create planters for spring bulbs and seeds.

Currently, Mr Jones is preparing the gardens for autumn and winter, starting with the front of the house.

He believes that first impressions count and is eager to make the entrance to Ashlynn Grange as welcoming as possible.

Looking forward to his first full year of managing the gardens, Mr Jones is excited about the potential of the grounds and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of the residents.

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Beyond his gardening duties, Mr Jones is setting up a gardening club for the residents, encouraging them to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

This initiative aims to bring the community together and provide a sense of purpose and joy.

Gardens and outdoor spaces are important in care homes, contributing to improved mental health, encouraging physical activity, promoting social interaction, providing a sense of purpose, and enhancing the overall environment.