Slideshow: Garden judges’ discretionary award

He and wife Elsie, who are both aged 80, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on August 1 – and the beautiful setting of their outdoor space provided the perfect party venue.

Family and friends were able to admire the fruits of Reginald’s labours on Saturday, August 3 when the couple hosted a get-together in a marquee for 70 guests.

His efforts have won him the Judges Discretionary Award in this year’s Garden of the Year competition, run with Frosts at Willington.

There was plenty for the party guests to admire in this garden off Putnoe Lane which has been designed around a series of themes – including its very own gold mine!

In one area, a Buddha awaits you as he sits in a big pergola.

In another, Reginald has made a Japanese-themed space, while Greek statues are complemented by the colours from Spanish and Mexican areas.

All these features have been built by Reginald, who describes himself as a handyman, and among all this building work he has had time to grow some wonderful shrubs and perennials, plus create a number of hanging baskets.

A number of arches he has made are home to climbers and these lead visitors through the different features.

The couple, who have three children, eight grand-children and eight great-grandchildren, make sure they have time to enjoy their garden too.

Reginal said: “I have never entered the competition before, but I like to keep the garden looking nice.

“Our neighbour Nina talked me into sending a photo and I’m very pleased to have this award.”