Floral Guernsey judges were in Herm this week finding out about the new walks and the public area. (0995603)

FLORAL Guernsey judges were in Herm this week to explore the new walks and public area.

UK judge Mark Wasilewski believes that opening up new sections of the island is a good idea.

‘Some places are very private about their areas of beauty, but it is right to share it with visitors. Herm has opened up many new views as well as the woodland walk, but the way it has been done fits with the caring and thoughtful management of the island.’

The judges spent the morning in the island being shown around by gardeners Brett Moore and James Cordingley. As well as the new areas, they visited the water works, the hotel lawns, residents’ private gardens and the school, where the children display their small but well-kept garden.

Guernsey judges Dave Stuart and Ann Le Pelley were shown the vegetables, herbs and flowers that the children have grown.

In turn, they shared their own tips on tomato growing and future upkeep of the plants.

The children also showed the large box they had painted and filled with vegetables to make a large centrepiece for the playground.

Along with UK judge Alice Paterson, the four were very impressed with the enthusiasm of everyone they met on their travels.

The allotments, new last year, are now established and flourishing.

The judges also were interested to find out about the island’s bees and honey-making.

‘The beekeeper, Gavin Hyde, is wonderfully enthusiastic,’ said Mr Wasilewski. ‘It’s great that he has brought his knowledge and new ideas to the island.

‘It is also good for him and the gardeners to have personal contact with guests, so they can share the beauty of Herm, but also educate others.’

Ann Le Pelley liked the peaceful areas, such as the woodland valley.

‘Obviously, many visitors come to the island every year for the pub and the beaches,’ she said.

‘But I expect that just as many people come for the beauty and the quietness.’

Floral Guernsey is always a good community experience and win or lose, we are always happy to share the beauty of the island with as many people as possible.