New gardener makes 'significant impact' at Ashlynn Grange

Matt Jones, with a passion for horticulture and sustainability, is transforming the care home's outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy.

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

Although he tried his hand at other careers, including sales, his heart was always in gardening.

He previously worked at a country park by the Nene River in Peterborough and as a regional gardener for another care home group, looking after nine care homes.

Meet the new gardener at Ashlynn Grange care home (Image: Submitted)

His experience and enthusiasm are now being channelled into Ashlynn Grange.

One of Mr Jones's main focuses is sustainability.

He recently helped Ashlynn Grange win an award at the Athena in Bloom 2024 competition for an innovative irrigation system on a timer.

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

Additionally, he is repurposing old pallets to create planters for spring bulbs and seeds.

At Ashlynn Grange, Matt is currently tidying up the gardens for autumn and winter, starting with the front of the house.

READ MORE: Meet the Manager' rail event to be held in Whittlesey

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

As he anticipates 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 to the residents' lives.

In addition to his gardening work, Mr Jones is setting up a gardening club for residents, encouraging them to get involved and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

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

Matt Jones’s arrival at Ashlynn Grange marks an exciting new chapter for the gardens and the community.