COMMUNITY heroes have been presented with a gift of festive flowers to thank them for their blooming marvellous contribution in making life that little bit better.
Perrywood Garden Centre, in Tiptree, launched its Christmas Cheer campaign and asked team members to nominate and deliver a planter to anyone they believe deserves some Christmas cheer.
Communications manager at Perrywood Debbie Wrigley said: “It’s been another challenging year for everyone, so we are delighted to end the year on a high with our Christmas Cheer campaign.
“We recognise that for some people Christmas can be a difficult time. We are so pleased this has bought joy and happiness to all the recipients.”
Fiona Frost, who works with the nursery’s container team, nominated Donald Bunting, her grandad to receive a floral gift.
She said: “He’s 101 and an incredible man who I adore.
“He has been through and seen more than most of us ever will.
“He loves flowers in the house, especially as my granny, who is no longer with us, always enjoyed them. It was so lovely to make him smile.”
Jackie Newton, from the coffee shop and restaurant team, nominated Josie Colmer, an NHS worker.
She said: “Josie is just one of so many NHS staff who have gone above and beyond over the last 18 months.
“Life has been very stressful on the wards with the lack of staff, wards being closed, working in full PPE, looking after patients who were unable to have visitors as well as sharing difficult news over the phone.
“Although this planter is for Josie, it is an acknowledgement to everyone in the NHS who are so appreciated.”
And Dawn Thomas, from the bedding plant team, nominated her friend, June Hugget.
She said: “June is 93-years-old and struggling with ill health and now finding it hard to go outside.
“June once loved gardening and visiting Perrywood with her neighbour.
“I know the Christmas planter will bring her so much joy.”
The business has two centres, in Tiptree and Sudbury, which have both been running the campaign for five years.
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