GARDENING expert – and New Blackmore Vale columnist – Mike Burks has received an honorary award.

Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, which owns Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester, has been awarded Honorary Membership of the Garden Centre Association (GCA).

Presented by GCA Chairman Will Blake at the GCA’s 57th annual conference, held at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel near Cirencester, the accolade recognises Mike’s commitment to and achievements on, behalf of the industry.

Will, MD of St Peter’s Garden Centre and chair of the GCA, said: “As Mike Burks steps down from the GCA Executive Committee, with his role as past chair coming to an end, the Committee board members wanted to recognise the extraordinary work he has done over the past six years.

“Mike took the reins just two months before the first Covid lockdown. He was instrumental in getting garden centres listened to by government, so that they could reopen after just seven weeks, undoubtedly saving many businesses within our industry.

“His guidance, support, leadership and environmental focus for the GCA and our industry is undeniable, and he will be sorely missed at Executive Committee meetings.”

Mike said: “I am bowled over by this announcement. The GCA represents the UK’s leading garden centres, so to be recognised and celebrated for my contribution is such a privilege.

“We are always inspired and motivated following the GCA Conference, and this year is no exception. Our team is already looking at ways to implement their new ideas at each garden centre this year.”

You can read Mike’s gardening column in your New Blackmore Vale every other fortnight.