HMP Whatton Prison in Nottinghamshire is the winner of the prestigious Windlesham Trophy Competition 2013 for the best kept prison garden in England and Wales. The prison retains the title it won in 2012 with this latest victory making a total of six wins for Whatton since the award scheme was launched in 1984.
President Emeritus of the RHS, Elizabeth Banks DL, presented the Windlesham Trophy, a specially engraved Green Goddess’ fire engine bell to Whatton officers during a special ceremony at the prison on 31 July 2013.
The competition judges Fiona Crumley, John Humphries VMH and Michael Hickson praised the 48 inmates who tended the garden for their use of colour themed borders that illustrated good garden practice; they were also impressed to see a colony of bumble bees using one of the special bee boxes in the garden.
Colour intensity that softened newly built areas of the prison was achieved through the creative use of tubs and planters of summer bedding. Lawns, perennial and herbaceous borders and a pollinator-friendly wild flower conservation area contributed to creating an impressive environment for both inmates and prison officers.
The important role gardening plays in the rehabilitation of offenders was outlined by HMP Whatton Governor Lynn Saunders who said: “Prisoners on the gardens team learn valuable skills including team working and communication, while they also have the opportunity to gain accredited qualifications. This enhances their prospects for employment upon release and help to reduce their chances of reoffending.”
HMP Kirkham was named 2013 runner-up with HMP Maidstone and HMP Eastwood Park occupying third and fourth places.
