Greenfingered gardener, Derek Fairhurst, has been presented with a special card by his neighbours thanking him for his “outstanding efforts” in helping to look after a well-loved community garden.

Local residents at New Walk, Totnes have been tending the planters on their road since they were installed by the Environment Agency as part of the town’s flood defence scheme in 2018.

Derek was often seen hoeing around the paved area of the planters during the summer months, and in the autumn he swept up copious amounts of leaves.

“He is such a star and an asset to our community,” said fellow community gardener and neighbour, Jenny Bullen.

Derek was presented with his card on the new plastic bench installed by South Hams Council to replace the aged wooden one that was beyond repair.

Resident Amanda Woolley who made the card said: “I made it from photos of the garden and gardeners and of Derek hoeing, including on the second page pictures of the launch event back in 2018.

“Andrew did some beautiful copperplate writing inside to describe and thank him for his efforts, and we all signed it.”

As well as attending regular gardening sessions, some of the residents have also adopted one or more of the planters to maintain between times, growing a mix of colourful flowers, herbs and other edibles.

Amanda said: “This proved really significant during lockdowns when people couldn’t travel far, since with the tender loving care of those nearby, the area continued to flourish and be an attractive outdoor space for people to visit.

“There are at least 10 other people actively involved in looking after the planters - either by adopting planters or coming along to help at monthly sessions - although we sometimes only have a small group each time. 

“Ann lives in New Walk and is an active member of the Totnes Garden group and with their help has created  looked after some of the central and most colourful planters at New Walk.”

She added: “It’s brilliant how this initiative has evolved into such a community effort; from people with the gift of greenfingers to those willing but less experienced, we find our monthly outdoor get-togethers are enjoyable, friendly and fun.

“We share gardening tips and our enthusiasm spills over into caring for the public areas, taking leaves away to mulch, chatting with neighbours and passers-by.

“I’ve certainly found it a good way to meet people.”