THE creativity of Halton gardeners was appreciated by thousands of visitors at the RHS Show in Tatton Park.

Norton Priory and Sue Beasley from Bluebell Cottage Garden in Dutton were invited to showcase their talents in the Cheshire Gardens of Distinction.

They teamed up with around 20 gardeners who work together as a co-operative to support each other.

Runcorn and Widnes World: Sue Beasley with her exhibit in the floral marquee DGXJ210715

The medieval ruins and Georgian walled garden inspired Norton Priory head gardener John Budworth to create a unique display.

Claire Broadhurst, Norton Priory activity planner said: “Set out in quarters our garden showcased herbs probably used to treat symptoms of four medieval diseases, rickets, leprosy, TB and Paget's.

“It also featured herbaceous flowers which attracted lots of bees, hoverflies and butterflies.

“Our team enjoyed chatting to gardening enthusiasts.”

Runcorn and Widnes World: Sue Beesley with her border in the Cheshire Gardens of Distinction DGXN210715

Winning BBC Gardener of the Year in 2006 inspired Sue to open her own specialist nursery.

She won a silver gilt for her exhibit in the floral marquee and created a small border outside.

She said: “It’s marvellous fun. Cheshire is fabulous for visiting gardens.

“Working 12 hour days is hard work but it is worth all the effort.”

Runcorn and Widnes World: Sue Beasley with her silver gilt medal DGZE220715