Visit Thrive and find out more about the power of gardening

Making its debut at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show this year is the national charity, Thrive, which has clear evidence that gardening really is good for you whatever your age.

According to a recent survey of disabled people commissioned by Thrive, three out of four people believe that gardening has been beneficial to their health, and one in five claim it has helped them through a time of mental or physical ill health. The research suggests that more could be done in communicating the effectiveness of exercise in the garden.

Passionate about the power of gardening for greater wellbeing, Thrive will be showcasing its unique work at both the Daily Mail Pavilion on DM8 and on stand number A/40 near the Thames Gate entrance.

At the Pavilion, Thrive will be selling Cistus “Thrive”. This evergreen shrub with masses of brilliant white flowers in summer, was originally grown exclusively by Hillier Nurseries to help raise funds for Thrive. It is excellent for dry, sunny banks and rock gardens.

Also on sale will be a special Thrive gardening apron to keep tools together – essential for anyone who knows the frustration of putting something down and having to search for it.

On stand no. A/40 Thrive will be launching a new CD – Keeping the Garden Gate Open – a joint initiative with The Royal National Institute of Blind People. This talking book will be available in return for a small donation

It contains inspirational stories by blind and partially sighted people who have continued gardening despite sight loss. It provides advice and tips and describes the enjoyment that gardening has brought, whether just a hanging basket or window box, an allotment or vegetable plot, or a garden of wild flowers.

”We are delighted to have the opportunity of being at Hampton Court Flower Show” says Nicola Carruthers, Chief Executive of Thrive. “We have clear evidence that people enjoy and value gardening and believe it has important benefits to their health and well being. Thrive has seen first hand how gardening can help everyone regardless of age or disability. Gardening can change lives.”

This year Thrive has been selected as one of the charities to receive proceeds from the Charity Gala Preview on Monday 7 July 2008.

For more information, visit thrive.org.uk.