Applications from all over the world were received for a dream job as head gardener on an idyllic Argyll island.
And now the successful applicant, Bryony White from Renfrewshire, has spoken about moving to Gigha to start work just before lockdown.
Achamore walled garden was created by Colonel Sir James Horlick with the assistance of gardener Kitty Lloyd Jones in 1944.
The 54-acre gardens are the home of Horlick’s renowned rhododendron and camellia collection and other unusual plants and trees from around the world that flourish in the microclimate.
Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust began a nationwide search for the important job of looking after the garden back in November. They received 17 applications, including applicants from Canada and South Africa
Mrs White said: “It’s been a really exciting time for myself and my husband, Graham. Moving from Renfrewshire to Gigha just before the lockdown started, getting the house in order, starting a new job, discovering this beautiful island, and starting to make new friends – has all been daunting but very enjoyable. We have been made to feel really welcome on the island. Everyone is really interested in what is happening in the gardens, even though they remain closed for the time being.
“I come from a background in managing and developing community gardens and before that was a countryside ranger. All skills that will stand me in good stead on Gigha. There is so much going on the island which is very exciting for the future of the island and community.”
Her immediate priorities are getting to know the gardens. She is working remotely with staff from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh to catalogue the plant collection which will help to decide what to prioritise in the coming years.
A development plan for the whole garden is being created to focus restoration efforts where they are most needed. She is also coming up with ideas for new paths and features.
She added: “Although the gardens are closed, we are working hard to get them ready for whenever we can reopen and are really looking forward to welcoming old and new friends. We hope visitors will really notice a difference from all our work. We will be looking for volunteers to help us with different projects when we can safely do so – so please get in touch with the trust office if you think you might have time over the summer to help.”
Jane Millar, business development manager for Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust, said: “Based on the honesty box donations the gardens receive, there are more than 5,000 visitors annually – and we look forward to welcoming many more when it is safe to reopen.”