We left Leeds at 6:30am, I knew the lads were keen as they were all up and waiting for me. A steady trip down the M1 meant that we arrived at the show at 1pm. On arrival Rob, Scott and Nick were introduced to Paul Stone who promptly gave us the grand tour. Rob and Nick were all smiles as we got to the entrance to the garden as they were instantly able to see the Kale and Cabbages that they had taken so much care to nurture over the last couple of months in all their glory.
The next two days were fantastic as all the guys, both from Faith Lodge and other organisations, threw themselves into anything that needed doing. You could see the effect on everyone of being included in something special. At this point I would like to say a huge thanks to Kevin Austin, Paul Stone and everyone we met from Eden who didn’t just work with us, but also took time out with us at the end of a busy day to socialise and invest time in just…well, basically having a laugh – something that speaks volumes about the kind of people they are.
I leave the last paragraph open for Scott (age 22) who’s trip to Chelsea was his first trip out of Yorkshire
Working on the garden - Nick, Rob, Scott and Chris
“I managed to get out of bed at 5:00 on Thursday morning, not a time I usually see but I was excited about the flower show, I really enjoyed the long drive down to London, it was the longest I have ever been in a car. It was amazing to see Wembley and Stamford bridge (although I would have prefered to see Old Trafford). I was excited to get to London which was bloody massive! We got a bit lost but got there in the end.
“I was really grateful to work with such a great team of men and women who we all clicked with straight away. I am still buzzing days after being at such a massive event. I had a great time and wish I could go back next year.”
well done Chris, you deserve all the recognition you deserve mate, good luck for the future.