THE reigning Miss Wales took a break from her studies this week to visit Belle Vue Park in Newport.

Alice Ford, 21, a molecular biology student, visited the park as part of the Heritage Horticulture Skills Scheme’s build up to its next open day, which will take place at the park on Tuesday June 10.

Specialists from the horticulture world will be at the park next week to celebrate the achievements of the scheme’s 2014 graduates and meet the heritage horticulturalists of the future.

Andrew Dixey, chair of the Heritage Horticulture Skills Scheme, said: “This scheme is unique and the open day at Belle Vue Park will provide a great platform for potential employers to view the skills of our trainees. One of our reasons for involving Miss Wales in the event and the scheme is to present it as a credible training opportunity for young people.

“We are offering trainees the opportunity to become specialists in heritage horticulture. They are learning practical, specialist skills that will make them attractive to employers and set them apart from those who have more general qualifications both in Wales and further afield.”

The scheme’s trainees are based in six gardens, including Belle Vue Park in Newport.

Miss Ford said: “I was delighted to be involved. It’s nice to be aware of the variety of specialist careers such as this which are available for young people nowadays.”

Places are available for next year’s scheme. Applicants can register at www.HHSS.co.uk. Closing date is June 20.