A not-for-profit organization that supports individuals with learning disabilities is aiming for a gold medal at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show.
Pulp Friction, based in Bramcote, Nottinghamshire, is among the hundreds of exhibitors at the prestigious annual event.
The group revealed that it had dedicated more than a year to preparing for the show.
Starting from Saturday, Pulp Friction showcased its ‘Growing Garden Skills’ display, which features edible plants and recycled materials.
The garden draws partial inspiration from Sherwood Forest and includes five trees, symbolizing that “only 5% of adults with a learning disability are currently in paid employment,” according to Pulp Friction.
In addition to its gardening projects, Pulp Friction operates a community café, a choir, and various other initiatives aimed at enhancing employment rates among individuals with learning disabilities.
Gill Carter, 65, who manages Pulp Friction, said the team had been working towards the prestigious flower show for 18 months.
Speaking to the BBC from Chelsea, she expressed: “It’s been really exciting. Seeing the garden come together was quite emotional and I’m not usually an emotional person.
“We’ve proven that with the right support and team, our members can achieve something this significant.”
The team cultivated runner beans, herbs, marigolds, and succulents for the garden, and handcrafted tiles and birdhouses.
The garden was designed by Pulp Friction’s lead gardener in collaboration with Dutch Landscape Architects, a UK-based firm.
A distinctive feature of the garden is a halo structure made from a recycled fire hose donated by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, with whom Pulp Friction maintains an ongoing partnership.
After the show, the garden will be relocated to Stockhill Fire Station in Basford.
