Grow on! Join in our fun contest

NOW that summer is here, there is no excuse not to get the garden in shape and enter The Hunts Post Garden Competition. One of this week s entries in the competition sponsored by Admiral Windows and Conservatories is from John and Trinidad Jarrett, of Bur

NOW that summer is here, there is no excuse not to get the garden in shape and enter The Hunts Post Garden Competition.

One of this week's entries in the competition sponsored by Admiral Windows and Conservatories is from John and Trinidad Jarrett, of Burleigh Road, in St Ives.

The Jarretts moved to St Ives in 1978. At the time, their garden was nothing more than a heap of discarded rubble on top of a heavy clay soil.

Over the years they tried different themes until settling on a cottage garden.

They said they have designed the garden with the emphasis on colour and being able to enjoy the garden all year round.

Mr Jarrett, 71, said: "Now we are able to enjoy a contrasting foliage in the winter, pansies, primroses and bulbs in the spring, bedding plants, shrubs and roses throughout the summer months, and hydrangeas and fuchsias through until the first frost."

To add to the cottage garden feel, there are two pear trees, an apple tree and climbing beans behind a greenhouse, as well as 25 rose bushes, which include hybrid tea, old English and miniature varieties. They range in colour from whites to reds.

Clematis, ivy and climbing roses cascade over the fences and arches while a narrow passage which links the front and back gardens is lined with ferns and aquilegia.

Mrs Jarrett, 74, is originally from Spain, so the garden boasts more than 20 potted geraniums which adorn the patio.

Mr and Mrs Jarrett have entered the most colourful display category of The Hunts Post Garden of the Year, which is open to anyone in Huntingdonshire who is proud of their gardening achievements.

There are two other categories - best kept garden and best garden design - and each offers a cash prize of £250.

The competition, which runs until September 30, also offers one overall winner a cash prize of £500.

Entering is simple. You can go on-line at www.huntspost.co.uk, click on garden competition and follow the instructions.

Or you can complete the coupon below and send it with three pictures of your garden and a 200-word note detailing why it deserves to win, to The Hunts Post, 30 High Street, Huntingdon PE29 3TB by Saturday, September 30.