Famous face Alan Titchmarsh has named a Perthshire nursing home the winner of a Scotland-wide gardening competition.
The legendary gardening expert and television presenter crowned Balhousie Ruthven Towers in Auchterarder as the champion of the Balhousie in Bloom, which took place in the 26 facilities of the Balhousie Care Group across the country.
Alan praised Balhousie Ruthven Towers for “individuality, an eye for color and a great spirit” in a renovation that involved residents, staff and the community.
The 51-bedroom property, a former country house, has received donations from relatives, locals, and the church, including lupins and wild geraniums.
It encouraged bees by leaving some weeds in bloom and added an orchard and ‘zen’ garden to its already extensive gardens. Power washing the patio areas, painting fences and hanging baskets all contributed to the transformation.
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Balhousie Ruthven Towers receives a £ 500 donation from the Balhousie Care Group for its residents’ comfort fund.
Home manager Kirsty Smith beamed: “It was a lot of work, but it has brought our residents a lot of happiness and joy and will continue to do so.
“We’re very excited to win Balhousie in Bloom, and Alan Titchmarsh’s seal of approval was just the icing on the cake. It gave me goosebumps. “
Resident Victor Quirie, 92, was happy to help with the transformation, saying, “It was nice to start planting again and see everything take shape. I’ve always followed Alan Titchmarsh, so it’s very special that he names Balhousie Ruthven Towers as the winner. “
Four finalists were selected in a close-knit competition judged by the management of the Balhousie Care Group.
They were Balhousie Ruthven Towers for the most improved category, Balhousie Luncarty for the best community engagement, Balhousie Coupar Angus for the best participation from staff and residents, and Balhousie Rumbling Bridge for the best interior presentation.
The big winner was then selected by Judge Alan, who admitted that his job was a difficult one. He also recognized the challenges Balhousie and other caregivers have faced over the past 18 months.
“It was very difficult to find an overall winner,” said Alan.
“But I am so impressed with the fact that every contribution has understood the value of gardens, plants and flowers in contributing to the betterment of our lives, especially in the past challenging times that have put us all to the test.
“The overall winner proved individuality, an eye for color and great spirit. We congratulate Balhousie Ruthven Towers on their tremendous improvement in providing an environment that uplifts residents and visitors alike. “
