YMCA Exeter, in collaboration with St David’s Church and Little Silver welcomed the Radio 4 show Gardeners’ Question Time.

It took place at St David’s Hill in Exeter on Tuesday 18th June. Chair, Kathy Clugston was joined by a panel of gardening experts.

Organic gardener, Bob Flowerdew; Garden designer and plantsman, Chris Beardshaw; and horticulturalist and plantswoman, Christine Walkden. 

YMCA Exeter Joint CEO Gareth Sorsby said: “Horticulture is central to the therapy YMCA Exeter offers in its support for young people who have come out of homelessness or care and need the support of a loving community to move forward. So we couldn’t be more delighted to have had the chance to host expert gardeners’ from across the UK for Gardeners’ Question Time.”

Prior to the evening recording, the GQT assistant producer, Rahnee Prescord recorded thoughts from YMCA Exeter residents on the impact that therapeutic horticulture has on them. 

Fen said: “This garden got me out of my room. It’s a safe place where I can leave behind my worries and negative thoughts and focus on the work that needs doing. Being part of this gardening community was the first time I felt like myself in a long time.” 

St David’s Hill is home to gardeners of all ages and backgrounds, committed to making an urban area beautiful for all.

From St David’s church with its wildflower regeneration project to YMCA Exeter’s allotments and Little Silver packed with tulips and crocuses, the audience of 300 at St.David's church enjoyed plying the GQT panel with thoughtful horticulture questions and showcasing our unique green corridor. 

If you were unable to attend the event, BBC Radio 4 will be airing the two episodes of GQT in Exeter on July 5 and 6 and July 26 and 28.