I was one of 6 gardeners that looked after the gardens. Before the war there would have been a much larger staff and after my time the staff would slim down to 2, by the turn of the millennium.
I was assigned to work much of the time with a gardener that had some horticultural education. Richard Shorten. He was most helpful in teaching me the names of plants and cultural advise. I really enjoyed the work and applied myself to ensure I survived the 6 week trial. Apparently this was sufficient and I became a permanent employee.
The Duchess of Gloucester was a most gracious lady, but from time to time she would join us in the work and get involved in planting or whatever was on the agenda. They had two boys, Prince William and Prince Richard who would take delight in splashing us if we walked too close to the lily pond, when they where in a playful disposition.
My pay was the princely sum of £5.00 a week. When I received my first pay packet I tossed the notes over my bed, it seemed a lot of cash to be paid for something you enjoyed doing.
At Christmas they would have a party in the manor and each member of staff received a nice present.
Dad had a lifetime passion growing sweet peas, even back in the bakehouse days.
In this picture you can just see Mum, then The Duchess, the Duke and Dad.
During the week we held a social evening or meetings. For awhile we met in the space above the Old Town Hall in the market place. Then Mum and Dad agreed to us using one of the upper levels in one of the outbuildings in the back yard at West St. We fixed it up and had a table tennis and darts etc set up.
Extreme left is I believe Rodney , then Noel Jibb from the shop in Warmington, then me, then a couple that moved down from Up North (his wife sitting in front of him), Trevor Whitehead at the extreme right.
We started holding an annual meeting and dinner at the Ship Guest house. Mrs.Newit the owner was very supportive, before her demise.
He always encouraged other people to get involved with growing and showing.
One of his protege was a friend Harry Pike, who after a few years of encouragement and guidance won the prestigious "Clay Cup" at the National Sweet Pea Show. Unfortunately this was an award that eluded Dad.
We began to explore the opportunities to attend Horticulture College, to advance my career.
A new college had just opened up in N.Wales at Northop Flinthshire. We sent for a prospectus and it appeared to offer everything I was looking for. Application was made and I was accepted.
I discussed the matter with Mr.Simpson the head gardener and he endorsed the move along with a glowing reference.