Simon Wilkinson, the second generation of his family to run Wilkinsons Landscapes near Teesside Airport, says he struggles to find adequately skilled and engaged employees.

Simon, who studied horticulture at the now defunct Askham Bryan college in Guisborough, advocated for more structured and higher quality education for those in Tees Valley who are interested the sector.

Simon said: “The business has grown steadily over the years, and we now employ more than 20 people between the plant centre, central office and out undertaking landscaping on behalf of customers.

  • To receive a complimentary copy of BUSINESSiQ magazine FREE in the post, register HERE

“When I started in this business as a teenager, there were many more good quality training opportunities and people were happy to get their hands dirty to learn the ropes.

“It’s a shame because horticulture is such a rewarding career and I wish more people would consider it. Seeing the results of your hard work literally bloom in front of your eyes is unbeatable in my opinion.

“Sadly, now there just aren’t the same opportunities for young people, or older people hoping for a career change, to get a proper education in the industry and gain qualifications.”

Alex Cunningham, MP for Stockton North, visited the plant centre to view its recent investment to create a café and hear about how the family venture has grown in the last four decades, from a one-man-band to a thriving business.

During his visit, Mr Cunningham saw Wilkinsons computer-aided design processes as well as backing its efforts in addressing the labour challenges.

Simon said: “I’m pleased Alex took the time to visit our plant centre and hear all about the business.

“He was really interested to hear how he might be able to help encourage more people, especially older people who are out of work or considering a part time job during retirement.”

Read next:

Mr Cunningham said: “Wilkinson’s is a long-established local family business and it’s great to see it continue to go from strength to strength, and create jobs for local people.

“Simon and I had a good chat about the lack of horticultural training on offer locally, and staff and trainee recruitment and retention in the profession as a result.

“This is something I regularly hear about when speaking to local farmers, growers and the National Farmers Union and it’s clear to me that we need to see more done to boost training and education opportunities, with educators working with experts like Simon to promote horticulture as a viable career path.”