A NORTH Lincolnshire gardener who experienced the Chelsea Flower Show from behind the scenes said it was among the best he had seen for quality and ambition.

John Cavill, 44, of Bottesford, was invited to attend the show as a VIP, with a view to building his own show garden there next year.

Mr Cavill was free to explore the vast array of gardens and exhibition stands at the world-famous event, held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, as well as chatting to those behind the horticultural works and some of the top names in gardening.

He started his exploring by visiting the courtyard gardens, which are the smallest in the show but can cost up to £50,000 to build.

He said: "I was lucky enough to talk to all the designers of these small gardens and was impressed by all of them.

"This is what would be an entry level garden for a designer and there is a great camaraderie between all the designer and builders."

After taking in the urban gardens and the floral marquee, Mr Cavill moved on to the event's centrepiece, the show gardens.

He said: "I just loved the Hesco garden by Leeds City Council.

"It took 11 weeks to build in lots of different sections then two weeks to assemble at Chelsea.

"It's a garden to represent the green spaces in Leeds and has a fabulous lock gate that seeps water from the upper lock beyond."

The five-day show, which ends today, includes more than 600 exhibitors and will have been seen by 157,000 people.

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