THE owner of a garden nursery has said that he has 'loved every minute' after celebrating one year since his takeover. 

Jonny Graham took over the Capstick's Garden Nursery, which is located on Brow Nelson, Carlisle, on August 10, 2023.

The nursery stocks products from trees and shrubs to bedding plants, and also plays an active role in the community by supplying a number of local businesses with plants and flowers.

After marking the milestone, Jonny was on hand to express his delight at making it to a year at the helm.

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He said: "It means a great deal to me. The year has been full of ups and downs but I have loved every minute of it.

"I have enjoyed being able to add my own personal touch to the business that I have loved and worked at for the last 12 years.

"This is the only place I have ever worked. It can be bitterly cold in the winter months but when the sun comes out and the customers come in either to buy plants, for advice, or simply for a chat as many regulars do, everyone is always happy.

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"No one is ever in a rush to buy plants so it’s definitely a relaxing environment to be in.

"I left school with only a couple of GCSEs so to be here now after my first year in business... it’s a hell of a feeling."

Jonny also discussed the nursery's relationship with the community and the response he has received since taking over as the owner in August 2023, which includes several 'kind words' from locals. 

He said: "The support has been great, the nursery has always had loyal customers who have all been very supportive and wished me luck in taking over the business.

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"We provide bedding plants and hanging baskets for Wigton Town Council, Cummersdale Parish, Houghton, pubs around Carlisle, and Carlisle Golf Course.

"I think being in the garden is great for mental health, whether it be keeping the garden tidy or simply having a couple of hanging baskets to look after, the benefits I think have a much bigger positive impact on people than you would think, myself included.

"As well we provide Dalston village with their bedding plants for pots and hanging baskets and we also take care of them all year round.

(Image: Supplied) "I receive lots of positive comments about the planters when I’m out maintaining them.

"All of these kind words mean the world to me which makes the job all the more worthwhile.

"A simple comment about the planters looking nice makes my day and I hope it brightens the day of those who either live locally or are just passing by."