Bernard Farrell - Master of Horticulture
Early retirement has been no rest for Bernard, whose fascination with bonsai led him into the path of the RHS's educational programme. Being the sort of chap who likes to see things through to a conclusion he determined to study all the eight modules leading to, first, a Diploma, and then, without pausing for breath, a further eight to earn his Master's. Quite an achievement even without undergoing a triple bypass half way through. He says he has some exceptional tutors and mentors to thank for not wavering from his mission.
It's all a long way from his working life, which began in the mining industry and ended with him obtaining as much government grant as possible for doing as little as possible to ancient downlands in south-east England.
His final dissertation for his Master's qualification has helped him understand what is required of gardens provided for respite centres and why so many fail, unnecessarily, to meet the needs of users, even when professionally designed or considered award winning.