Jamie eyes prize at Chelsea Flower Show

Having successfully earned a silver medal in last year’s Urban Garden category, the Braithwell-based garden designer will be looking to go one better at the world-renowned event which takes place between May 25 and 29.

Said Jamie: “Only around a dozen designers are chosen to show in this category, so I am delighted to be back again in 2010. I was a little disappointed to miss out on the gold medal in 2009 but I’m going all out to make up for it this year.”

Jamie and his parents began their nursery retailing business – Plants of Special Interest at Braithwell near Rotherham – 15 years ago after diversifying away from farming.

Over the years, and with the help of some expert advice from the Country Land and Business Association, the family gradually transformed their two-acre farm site into a thriving business including a stylish shop and café.

Their lucky break came when a professional photographer took some shots of the nursery and the family’s gardens, which were published in several national magazines.

Jamie’s first show was Tatton Park in 2005, where he took the gold medal in his category. He achieved another first place finish the next year.

In addition to going for gold at Chelsea this year, Jamie is also launching a new mail-order service as part of a business development scheme, which includes a change of name to The Gardener’s Boutique.

CLA Yorkshire regional director Dorothy Fairburn said: “In addition to a talent for garden design, Jamie and his family also have an undeniable entrepreneurial flair, which has seen them grow a highly successful business. I am very pleased that the CLA has been able to support them along the way.”