Chelsea Flower Show – supporting a good cause

The Hampden Stargardt Garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower show was designed for people with Stargardt’s – an inherited progressive disease that affects the retina, causing vision loss. The condition is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults and causes difficulty recognising faces and reading. Experienced gardeners Joanne Edmonds and Camilla Windsor-Clive – an ambassador for the charity Stargardt’s Connected – were inspired to create the space both to raise awareness of the condition, and provide sufferers with a calming, peaceful space to visit. Influenced by the colours of the Hampshire countryside, it’s intended to appeal to the senses with the sound of running water, the scent of plants, and other tactile sensations. At its centre, the garden features a striking water feature made of ash bark, with charred black planters contrasting with lighter shades of apricot, lilac and cream. Sponsored by financial advisors Hampden Agencies Limited, F.H. Brundle was among a number of companies that donated products to help make the project possible. F.H. Brundle Managing Director Michael Brundle visited Joanne and Camilla at a very sunny Chelsea Flower Show to admire their handiwork. “I had a fantastic day at Chelsea, and it was great to show our support to both Joanne and Camilla and an incredibly important cause”, Michael comments. “I loved the finished garden and am delighted we were able to play a small part in bringing it to life. “I was delighted to see Joanne and Camilla’s efforts recognised with a Silver-Gilt Award at the show! “If you’re interested in helping support children and adults suffering from Stargardt’s, I’d encourage you to visit www.stargardtsconnected.org.uk.”