From an early age my father fostered and encouraged my fascination with the natural world. He was a keen gardener and I’ve inherited his passion. In my teens my mother and I joined a Floral Art class, then the local club. Between them my parents nurtured my love of plants and gardens. Following a degree in Biochemistry, I taught Biology for approximately 30 years. I’m married with 3 children and 4 grandchildren. My family are my hub.

During my working life I relaxed by participating in the local Floral Art Club, Ladies Speakers Club (I was President of two and a founder member of one), yoga classes and of course whenever possible visiting gardens with friends and family. I am a member of The Caley (RCHS) and enjoy their winter lectures and garden visits. My husband and I have had some great holidays with them too. The many friends I’ve made play an active part in my social circle. Throughout my life, gardening has been my abiding passion. I find great solace in my garden, where the pressures and worries of everyday life disappear as I tend my plants.

Visiting a Shirley Sherwood exhibition in Edinburgh was a turning point. I thought “I’d love to do that”, so on retirement I attended several classes at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens and more recently with Fiona Strickland and Robert McNeill. Once again I’ve made many good friends and as a result of our combined passion for Botanical Art some of us have started this new society, The SSBA – let’s see what we can do!