When a construction worker from Dollis Hill saw a decrease in his working hours he had a choice of two hobbies to choose – gardening or golf.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Anita and Bernard Fitzpatrick with Hamish (Pic credit: Jan Nevill)Anita and Bernard Fitzpatrick with Hamish (Pic credit: Jan Nevill) (Image: Copyright: Mr. Jan Nevill)

Three years on and the green-fingered talents of Bernard Fitzpatrick, of Campbell Gordon Way, has not only brought the community together but has also resulted in them winning a string of awards.

Brent & Kilburn Times: The award-winning residents of Campbell Gordon Way (Pic credit: Jan Nevill)The award-winning residents of Campbell Gordon Way (Pic credit: Jan Nevill) (Image: Copyright: Mr. Jan Nevill)

Last week, the horticultural skills of the Campbell Gordon Way Residents’ Association saw them scoop the neighbourhood category in this year’s Brent in Bloom competition for the third year in a row.

Mr Fitzpatrick told the Times he was ‘chuffed’ with the award which was a result of the work of 20 residents including 10 children.

He said: “When my working hours were reduced from seven days a week to five days I was considering taking up golf but went for gardening instead.

“I did my front garden and people were so impressed by my work they started asking me to help them and it blossomed from there.

“Now we are winning awards left, right and centre.”

The cost of the plants, seeds and equipment are funded by the resident’s management company Templegate one and two and ward working money from the three Dollis Hill councillors; but the labour cost nothing but the volunteer’s time.

Mr Fitzpatrick, who won a Brent Community Champions Awards for his work with residents this year, added: “Some of use residents might have nothing in common but we all want to live in a nice place.

“It’s lovely to see the youngsters with their own little wheelbarrows and spades doing their part.

“We are now focused on winning the London in Bloom contest so fingers crossed.

Cllr Alison Hopkins, Dollis Hill councillor, said: “I’m absolutely delighted but not a bit surprised that Bernie and his wonderful band of helpers at Campbell Gordon Way have won Brent in Bloom for the third year running.

“It isn’t just their estate that’s benefitted; people across Dollis Hill have said how lovely the display is and how much it adds to the area. It’s a great gateway to our beautiful Gladstone Park.”