The trust managing Parc yr Esgob (Bishop’s Park) in Abergwili, has started a new phase of development with the recruitment of 3 Horticultural Trainees. Funding from Porth Gwyrdd Green Gateway Project and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, plus other funders, has enabled the team to expand with a focus on training up entry level gardeners in heritage horticulture.
The trainees, Ebony, Leo and Caidin, all local young people, began their 26 week placements on October 13th. Working alongside a team of dedicated volunteers and under the guidance of Head Gardener Blue Barnes-Thomas, the trainees’ learning will cover all aspects of horticulture, with a focus on planting up the newly restored walled garden.
The walled garden, which will be opening to the public in May 2027, is a historic kitchen garden that once grew vegetables, fruit and flowers for the tables of the Bishops of St Davids, who have resided for centuries in Abergwili.
“The walled garden is an important part of our local heritage, and it will be the perfect setting for special events and training, as well as community activities and regular public access” explained Blue, “so we want to make sure that the planting is both beautiful and in keeping with the walled garden’s very special history.”
Parc yr Esgob Trust also hopes that hire of the walled garden, including one of its newly restored glasshouses, plus guided tours and entry fees will bring a much-needed new income stream to Parc yr Esgob Trust, ensuring that current and future gardeners can continue to tend Abergwili’s precious park and gardens.
“It’s so interesting to see all the work involved in developing the park and making it safe and accessible for the public,” said Leo. “I’m enjoying learning about horticulture – and especially gardening for wildlife – and hope it will help me further my career. Helping with the walled garden means we’re also playing a role in making the park and the trust more sustainable financially.”
Caidin said “I’m really enjoying getting involved and learning more about Parc yr Esgob. For starters, learning how such a small team manages 17 acres of meadow, gardens, lake and parkland – and visitors!”
Ebony added “It’s exciting to be part of such an interesting story. I think this is a great way to start off my career. I’m getting a taste of everything and I’m looking to start a professional horticulture course next year.”
Bright Futures for 3 New Horticultural Trainees
Posted: 10/11/2026 by Admin2
The trust managing Parc yr Esgob (Bishop’s Park) in Abergwili, has started a new phase of development with the recruitment of 3 Horticultural Trainees. Funding from Porth Gwyrdd Green Gateway Project and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, plus other funders, has enabled the team to expand with a focus on training up entry level gardeners in heritage horticulture.
The trainees, Ebony, Leo and Caidin, all local young people, began their 26 week placements on October 13th. Working alongside a team of dedicated volunteers and under the guidance of Head Gardener Blue Barnes-Thomas, the trainees’ learning will cover all aspects of horticulture, with a focus on planting up the newly restored walled garden.
The walled garden, which will be opening to the public in May 2027, is a historic kitchen garden that once grew vegetables, fruit and flowers for the tables of the Bishops of St Davids, who have resided for centuries in Abergwili.
“The walled garden is an important part of our local heritage, and it will be the perfect setting for special events and training, as well as community activities and regular public access” explained Blue, “so we want to make sure that the planting is both beautiful and in keeping with the walled garden’s very special history.”
Parc yr Esgob Trust also hopes that hire of the walled garden, including one of its newly restored glasshouses, plus guided tours and entry fees will bring a much-needed new income stream to Parc yr Esgob Trust, ensuring that current and future gardeners can continue to tend Abergwili’s precious park and gardens.
“It’s so interesting to see all the work involved in developing the park and making it safe and accessible for the public,” said Leo. “I’m enjoying learning about horticulture – and especially gardening for wildlife – and hope it will help me further my career. Helping with the walled garden means we’re also playing a role in making the park and the trust more sustainable financially.”
Caidin said “I’m really enjoying getting involved and learning more about Parc yr Esgob. For starters, learning how such a small team manages 17 acres of meadow, gardens, lake and parkland – and visitors!”
Ebony added “It’s exciting to be part of such an interesting story. I think this is a great way to start off my career. I’m getting a taste of everything and I’m looking to start a professional horticulture course next year.”
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