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Gardener of Gogglebox couple Dom and Steph takes charge of Canterbury Cathedral grounds

A talented gardener who tends multi-award winning gardens owned by a Gogglebox couple is taking charge of Canterbury Cathedral's grounds.

Steve Edney, head gardener at hotel The Salutation in Sandwich , owned by Steph and Dom Parker, is taking over the prestigious role of gardens manager at the world-famous religious site this week.

The Salutation is owned by Steph and Dom Parker but was being leased to John Fothergill, who declared bankruptcy in January. Picture: Alan Langley
The Salutation is owned by Steph and Dom Parker but was being leased to John Fothergill, who declared bankruptcy in January. Picture: Alan Langley

The Salutation closed its doors in January after the leaseholder declared bankruptcy .

The hotel is renowned for its beautiful gardens - known as the Secret Gardens of Sandwich - tended by Mr Edney and his team who took home the Tudor Rose gold award at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show last year.

Mr Edney said on Twitter that while The Salutation is currently up for sale, he is continuing to help out with the garden until it has been sold.

Announcing his new part-time role at Canterbury Cathedral, he described his plans for the grounds.

Steve Edney, head gardener at the Salutation, won gold at the Chelsea Flower Show last year
Steve Edney, head gardener at the Salutation, won gold at the Chelsea Flower Show last year
The Salutation in Sandwich closed in January with all bookings cancelled. Picture: The Wow Factory
The Salutation in Sandwich closed in January with all bookings cancelled. Picture: The Wow Factory

"I hope over the coming years to see the gardens open regularly and undergo extensive renovation including the creation of a few new gardens," he wrote.

"It is my hope to create robust gardens for the future, increase biodiversity all through plant driven design as the cathedral is a world heritage site, create opportunities for students to learn the craft of gardening and start a volunteer team to assist in the gardens."

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury

Read more: All the latest news from Sandwich

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