A hospice has been awarded for its "beautiful" garden space in the Reading in Bloom wellbeing category.

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice has won gold for the second year in a row at the annual awards.

The hospice said its success is down to a team of six volunteer gardeners who meet once a week at the Reading hospice.

Volunteer gardener Margaret Husein said: “All six of us love meeting up and battling both the elements and the weeds to help in the garden and catch up over a cuppa.

“Most of us have personal experience of family members or friends who have needed the care and support of Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice.

"As gardeners, we believe an attractive outdoor space is important to everyone’s wellbeing.

“We try to provide a view from every patient’s room. Colour, interesting forms and foliage, bird feeders, sounds of water and different scents are all important elements in the garden for patients, families, friends and staff.

“We have different areas from woodland to raised beds, colourful borders, a memory garden and a revamped Wendy House with outdoor toys for younger visitors."

Jennifer Patient, Senior Community Fundraiser, said: “We are over the moon that the garden at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent has won gold in the wellbeing category of the Reading in Bloom awards for the second year running.

“The garden is such a beautiful space that gives so many of our patients a place to relax, be with friends and family and just to take time out for themselves."