Caroline Corkett - Hector Harrison Award
Caroline is the 2010 winner of the Hector Harrison Award for gaining the highest marks in the RHS level 3 Advanced Certificate in Horticulture.
Her interest in gardening began as a child, when she was given a small plot in the family garden. It remained with her through her life as she joined Marks & Spencer's management shceme and then brought up three children. During this time she got involved with the local allotment society and was voted best newcomer. This inspired Caroline to improve her horticultural knowledge and use it to stimulate people at an outreach centre for adults with memory loss - her first step towards turning a hobby into a career.
Once her children had grown up Caroline's desire for formal horticultural qualifications was rekindled and she completed City & Guilds design and planting modules before gaining the RHS level 2 Certificate in Horticulture, followed by the Society’s level 3 Advanced Certificate.
She now runs a gardening business caring for a range of gardens, from small town plots to much larger country gardens, and aims to continue her horticultural studies.