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Firefighter ‘over the moon’ to be crowned Gardener of the Year

Comedian Vic Reeves (right) presents Gary McLaughlan with the Golden Trowel
Comedian Vic Reeves (right) presents Gary McLaughlan with the Golden Trowel

A firefighter has said he is “over the moon” at being named the first B&Q Gardener of the Year.

Gary McLaughlan, 44, from Sunderland designed the garden – one of the smallest entries to the competition – for his partner, Lindsey.

It features an ornamental fishpond, reclaimed driftwood, and stained glass windows.

Mr McLaughlan’s prize was £10,000y, free B&Q plants, and a golden trowel, which was presented by comedian Jim Moir, better known as Vic Reeves.

Mr McLaughlan said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to be crowned the first ever B&Q Gardener of the Year.

B&Q Gardener of the year

“I originally designed the garden for my partner, Lindsey, who spent time gardening as a child, so I wanted to create a space for her which evoked those memories.

“I’m relatively new to gardening, and still have a lot to learn, but this competition has most certainly shown that you don’t need a huge garden or bags of experience to create a uniquely beautiful outside space.”

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