A garden created to recognise the work of a neonatal unit charity at St George’s Hospital has been awarded a gold medal at the Chelsea Flower Show.
Designed by landscape architect Patrick Collins (below), the First Touch garden was one of six recipients of the gold medal in the Best Fresh Garden category at this year's event.
Mr Collins has strong ties with the hospital and in particular the neo-natal unit because his daughter, Isabel, was born prematurely in 2001 and was cared for by staff at St George’s.
He said: "Isabel was born three months early, so I know first hand how incredible the neonatal unit at St George's is, and how amazing the nursing staff and doctors there are.
"I really wanted to raise awareness of the life saving work taking place at the neonatal unit, which is supported by First Touch."
The concept of the garden was inspired by cells, the building blocks of life - a reminder that all life starts from extremely small beginnings.
Sarah Collins (above), First Touch's director and wife of Patrick, said: "It has been truly amazing to have our garden awarded a gold medal at such a prestigious event.
"The garden also had a royal visit from Her Majesty The Queen, so it really has topped off a wonderful week."
First Touch's celebrity patrons (below), including TV presenters Ortis Deley and Chris Jarvis, newsreader and presenter Sophie Raworth and Ashling McCloy, writer and style expert, also visited the garden to show their support.
The Neonatal Unit cares for over 600 newborn babies each year.
To find out more about the work of the charity visit www.first-touch.org.uk.
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