11th April 2009
You find me at the end of my first week at Lower Coombe Royal, and what a magnificent place. First impressions are almost of the Lost Gardens of Heligan, but on a smaller scale.

The weather has been a bit of a mixed bag this week, but absolutely gorgeous for the Easter weekend with the Camellias out in full force and the Magnolias and Rhododendrons breaking bud. It really is quite spectacular.

Just a little introduction to myself. After a number of years within the Hotel and Wines & Spirits industries, I decided to go back to college. I studied Horticulture at Pershore college, specialising in Landscape Design and Amenity Management, my final year being under the tutorship of Chris Beardshaw. After leaving college, I worked for a number of Nurseries and Garden Centres until my wife and I moved to Devon 4 ½ years ago. All of this time has been spent at Burgh Island where I was responsible for Landscaping and Grounds maintenance.

Now at Lower Coombe Royal, I feel it is an honour and responsibility to continue the fine work of the owner and Rose Wood in nurturing these wonderful historic gardens.
Yours, Richard Giles