Retired teacher scoops prestigious BBC Gardeners' World prize

Frank Bowdler, who lives in Squires Lane in Tyldesley, entered BBC Gardeners' World's Gardens of the Year contest after spotting an invite for entries in the May magazine edition.

The former Fred Longworth teacher was shortlisted in July, before finding out he won the Judges' Choice award at the end of October with his garden featuring in this month's issue.

Frank, 73, has also won a holiday to Costa Rica.

He said: "I was very pleased to win the award.

"I never had a garden before I moved to my house when I was around 40.

"I have learnt by trial and error and from watching gardening programmes.

"Since I retired around 20 years ago I have done more to the garden and I still want to improve it."

Inside Frank's garden

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As part of the transformation to the garden, Frank knocked down his garage and replaced it with a tropical area.

He has around 250 plants in his colourful garden, which was praised by judges for its "magical atmosphere" and "sheer volume of plants".

"It keeps me busy and active and provides a space to entertain a few friends," Frank said.

"The three different areas have their own character, providing a variety of places to sit with a glass of wine, have a meal or light the fire pit.

"I particularly like the sunken area around the well.

"Sitting on one of two benches in the garden, surrounded by plants like phormiums and euphorbias, makes it seem very secluded and idyllic."

Green-fingered Frank shared his success on social media and received heaps of praise including from a former pupil, who lives in Cambodia.

Once winter passes Frank intends to get back in the garden and make further improvements.