At famille, we believe great projects don’t just create beautiful places – they help people connect with nature, strengthen communities and leave a lasting positive impact. That’s why we were delighted to sponsor Nene Nursery’s Long Border at the inaugural RHS Sandringham Flower Show.
Designed by Gareth Lorman and Sofija Tarasevic, the border celebrates Nene Park Trust’s accessible plant nursery in Peterborough. More than a place to grow plants, Nene Nursery is a welcoming space where the community can come together to learn new skills, improve their wellbeing and experience the restorative benefits of spending time outdoors.
Award-winning design
The exhibit, which was awarded a Silver-Gilt Medal, told the story of this remarkable community project, showcasing plants nurtured by volunteers, local schools and community groups. It also celebrated the role that gardens and green spaces can play in supporting biodiversity while creating places where people can feel happier, healthier and more connected.
Adrian Oates, Director of Development and Partnerships at Nene Park Trust, said: “Winning a Silver-Gilt Medal is a fantastic achievement, and a wonderful recognition of what Nene Nursery represents. The border celebrates the power of community growing, showing how gardening can bring people together while supporting biodiversity and wellbeing. We’d like to thank everyone who contributed to the project, especially our volunteers, supporters and partners, and we are incredibly grateful to famille, whose sponsorship helped bring our vision to RHS Sandringham.”
All the plants on display were grown by Nene Nursery staff and local volunteers, reflecting the growing popularity of community-led spaces that provide opportunities to learn, connect and support wellbeing. Integrated into a beautiful and practical planting scheme, herbs and vegetables such as garlic, broad beans and beetroot sit alongside pollinator-friendly flowers, demonstrating how productive planting and biodiversity can thrive together.
Sustainable planting for wellbeing
Key features include a miniature outdoor food preparation area and pizza oven, alongside hazel forms, kokedamas and sculptural trees. Through sustainable planting, this border invites visitors to connect with nature while celebrating the power of growing for wellbeing.
Debbie Larrad, Founder and Strategist at famille, said: “famille is proud to support Nene Park Trust as sponsor of Nene Nursery’s Long Border at RHS Sandringham. Nature and gardening are close to our hearts, as we believe every garden should be a haven for wildlife and a space for people to enjoy. Whatever its size, whether it’s a garden, allotment or even a balcony with pots, these spaces are vital for visiting and resident wildlife.”
As a sustainability marketing and communications consultancy, we’re passionate about connecting people, places and purpose, helping organisations communicate with clarity, confidence and authenticity to inspire positive action. Nene Nursery is a brilliant example of how environmental stewardship, community engagement and wellbeing can come together to create lasting benefits for both people and nature.
We’re proud to have played a small part in supporting this inspiring project. Following the show, the award-winning border will be relocated to Nene Nursery, where it will continue to grow and be enjoyed by volunteers, visitors and the local community for years to come.