What first inspired you to become a gardener, and how did you find your way to Crystal Palace Park?
I first got involved by volunteering in the park on gardening and nature projects like the Secret Garden, Vicar’s Oak, the Palaeo Planting Project, and by leading Parkbathe walks. That experience inspired me to study horticulture at Capel Manor College.‍
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What’s a typical day like for you in the park, and is there a task you secretly enjoy the most?
I love that every day is different! I’m especially excited to be working on the regeneration areas around the dinosaurs and the Italian terraces; it feels like a really special time in the park’s history. I secretly enjoy the little things too – weeding, pruning, and deadheading plants during my rounds.
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‍Do you have a favourite spot in the park, and why does it feel special to you?
‍There are so many to choose from! At the moment, I’m especially fond of the Grand Centre Walk, lined with plane trees. It’s a lovely place to have lunch with friends on the benches, catch the breeze under the dappled shade, and watch life go by.
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‍When you’re not in the park, how do you like to spend your time? Any hobbies or interests our visitors might be surprised to learn about?
‍I draw things and make badges. Children/parents may know my work with the colouring sheets and duck food bags in the park cafe. I have also had a recent illustration commission for Great Ormond Street Hospital from my drawings inspired by my time in the park.