The Northern Ireland Heat of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, Young Horticulturist of the Year competition, was held recently at CAFRE Greenmount Campus in Antrim. A large number of young people battled it out for winner and runner-up and the chance to represent Northern Ireland in the Ireland Branch final, which will be held in St Enda’s College, Dublin, at the end of March.
After 40 taxing questions, Emma McFarline, Omagh, who is currently in her first year studying for a Foundation Degree in horticulture, took top place beating Extended Diploma Student Jordan Black, Ballynahinch. Tying for third place were Liam McGrane, Portadown, and Reece McArthur, Comber.
The competition was sponsored by Hillmount Nursery Centre, Belfast. Owner, Alan Mercer presented the prize winners with their certificates and cheques. Claire Woods, Senior Lecturer and Chair of the Ireland Branch of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, congratulated all who took part, thanked Hillmount Nursery Centre for their generous sponsorship and wished Emma and Jordan success in the Ireland Branch Final.
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption - CAFRE horticulture students Reece McArthur, from Comber, Emma McFarline, Omagh, Jordan Black, Ballynahinch and Liam McGrane, Portadown, winners of the Northern Heat of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture Young Horticulturist of the Year competition receiving their prizes from sponsor Mr Alan Mercer of Hillmount Nursery Centre, Belfast, sponsor of the competition.
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