After months of planning, designing, and growing, all of the hard work paid off this week for staff at Burncoose Nurseries who won a Gold Medal for their garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Designed by Geraldine Hood-Leeder and Louisa Lazarowicz, The Burncoose Nurseries' garden celebrated the 100 year anniversary of the first meeting of the Rhododendron Society, which held its first AGM at the Chelsea Flower Show 1916.

Charles Williams, owner of Burncoose Nurseries, is the great-grandson of JC Williams, founding member of the society. Charles was joined at Chelsea Flower Show by Rupert Eley, the great-grandson of Charles Eley and David Millais, great-nephew of J G Millais. All three descendants of the three founders are key members of the present day group.

Commenting on the news of the Gold Medal win, Charles Williams said: “We are delighted to be working with The RHS Rhododendron, Camellia and Magnolia Group to celebrate the centenary of the first AGM of The Rhododendron Society at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, 1916. As part of our exhibit we are showcasing a selection of well-known favourites, as well as highlighting varieties which were popular 100 years ago. We are also showing never-before-seen historical documents and letters dating back to the start of the society.

“Winning a Gold Medal is a great honour and testament to all the hard work of the team. I’d like to thank them for the efforts and I’d also like to thank Terra Firma for their continued support of Burncoose Nurseries at RHS Chelsea Flower Show."

Terra Firma has sponsored the Burncoose Garden at the Chelsea Flower Show since 2003. It is also a patron of the Prince’s Trust and its support has helped disadvantaged young people through the Prince's Trust Enterprise programme. This year, Prince’s Trust Ambassador, British actress Naomie Harris, visited the Burncoose stand.

Naomie said: “It was an honour to attend Chelsea Flower Show on behalf of The Prince’s Trust. The Burncoose Nurseries garden is a fantastic example of how, over time, things can develop, evolve and grow when they have support, dedication and passion at their core. These are key values of The Prince’s Trust.”