PUBLIC PLACES
We all got stuck in! The area is a credit to them and has ensured that visitor numbers have returned and improved
” The Menagerie House
job, opted for a YTS horticulture course. “My father, when I asked what I should do, told me to go for the job you love. I clearly remember that I was paid £16 a week!” Paul’s first job was landscaping and tree surgery; not really what he wanted, which was horticulture. Fortunately, a position at Nostell was spotted by Paul and he discovered that a new team of gardeners was to be set up there to replace contractors. This seemed ideal, so applied and got the job, which entailed day release to college and he soon obtained an NVQ in Horticulture. Now he was making progress and doing what he loved. His work must have impressed as he was offered and took on the position of Head Gardener when he was twenty two! His inspiration to get into
horticulture came from his granddad, as young Paul enjoyed helping him on his allotment. Paul remembers seeing the fruits of his labours and that gave so much satisfaction. Paul also recalls that, during his early years at Nostell, he was fortunate to have help and encouragement from two people in particular. William Craven, the Land Agent at Nostell Estates, took a keen interest in his development and Andrew McVitie, the Senior Rural Surveyor for the National Trust, also helped and encouraged him. “He showed me how to advance my career,” said Paul.
As Garden and Park Manager now, Paul is responsible for his own budget, reporting to the General Manager. His team of six and
army of volunteers comprises gardeners, rangers and a tenant farmer, each of whom has their own specialities and favoured activities. The team, shown below at the front of the house, are:
Back row left to right:
• David Hudson-Spragg, Gardener. On his second stint at Nostell, having started on a YTS scheme and taken on full time. After a number of years, he left for another garden but the lure of Nostell has seen him return! Loves gardening and always has
• Paul Dibb, Garden and Park Manager
• Mark Westmoreland, Gardener. Started at Nostell in 2012. Got the bug from being a volunteer and from his grandfather
The Nostell team. Back row left to right: David Hudson-Spragg, Paul Dibb, Mark Westmoreland. Front row left to right: Michelle Tierney, Richard Farrah, Richard Grayson, Hazel Irving
118 PC February/March 2020
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