WITH the summer upon us, many people will be out and about across Wales enjoying our wonderful historic parks and gardens.

While we may take for granted the surroundings on our day out, there is great skill and knowledge that goes in to creating a garden of yesteryear.

Heritage Horticulture is an art form in itself and while not quite a dying trade, we would like to think that we at the Heritage Horticulture Skills Scheme are providing a service to keep Wales in touch with its past and take it forward into the future.

We are currently recruiting bursary trainees for 2014/2015 and are appealing to any garden enthusiasts who would like to become heritage horticulturists of the future to get in touch. Places are available to learn in gardens across Wales, including the special garden of Belle Vue Park in Newport, and applications are being taken until June 20, 2014, for our next series of intakes.

Applicants should apply online at www.hhss.co.uk

Andrew Dixey Chairman Heritage Horticulture Skills Scheme