Ken Crowther, who hosts a weekly podcast on BBC Essex radio, paid a visit to the Lavender Garden at Queen’s Hospital this week (Tuesday 8 October).

He was there to give support and advice on how we can make the most of our garden, which provides a beautiful, calming atmosphere for staff, patients and visitors to Queen’s Hospital.

It’s looked after by volunteer gardeners on behalf of the King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity, which maintains the garden. And more are needed to help tend to this important outdoor space at the hospital.

Ken, who also once hosted TV show, Gardeners’ Diary, said: “I’ve been a gardener for my entire career and the satisfaction you get from gardening, being able to look back at your own work, is wonderful. And it’s even more satisfying if you’re helping to maintain a garden which brings comfort to patients and staff at a hospital.

“The Lavender Garden is really well designed, with lots of soft grasses which give it some movement. Just sitting in a garden enjoying the peace can do wonders for the mind. It’s good for you and good for others which is why I’d encourage local gardeners to come forward and support the charity to maintain the garden. It would be great if a local company would come forward to sponsor it too!”

If you think you, or someone you know, could help look after our Lavender Garden, get in touch with Lynda Head, our Head of Fundraising, on 01708 504322, or via email: lynda.head@nhs.net. After an initial conversation, Lynda will put prospective volunteers in touch with our Volunteer team so they can be officially registered.

Ken is pictured in the Lavender Garden