The year-long course allows students to gain valuable practical experience with the conservation charity, with opportunities to work with experienced horticulturists and to gain knowledge of a wide variety of plant material. The course is well regarded, attracting students from all over the world.

As their time at the Threave School of Practical Gardening comes to a close, the five students intend to make good use of their experience, going on to work in or study horticulture. The coming year’s intake of students will arrive at the gardens in the next few weeks.

The day also marked the official unveiling of an attractive water and sculpture feature in the property’s Patio Garden, which is dedicated to volunteer and legacy donor Barbara Hargreave. Brian Corr, Head Gardener at Threave, said, 'In these economic times it is great to see people so eager to learn practical skills that are in demand. The Threave Craftsman Gardener’s Certificate will allow our students to help in the care of historic gardens around the world, ensuring that they can be enjoyed by generations to come. I am proud of every one of them and wish them every success in their future.'

Pictured are the students who received their certificates (from left to right): Barbara Carleton, Rowena Middleton, Nereida Martin-Fabregas, Louis Nugus, Gunta Gedvillo also passed but was unable to attend the ceremony.