A TEAM of students from Essex will gain the ultimate in work experience when they help to host the world’s most famous floral event.

The group of five, all in training at Writtle College, have been given the chance to man the Chelsea Great Pavilion, centrepiece of the Chelsea Flower Show.

The opportunity comes thanks to a new initiative, Young Hillier Day, organised by the 150-year-old Hillier nursery, in Hampshire, in collaboration with the college.

Young Hillier Day aims to showcase horticultural careers and highlight what horticulture offers young people. Ben Francis, one of the team, said: “We will be helping to spearhead the drive by the industry to attract more school-leavers into horticulture.”

From 8am until 8pm, the younger generation will manage the largest exhibit at Chelsea, field gardening queries from visitors, maintain the plant material and share information and advice with gardeners.

The exhibit in their charge, designed and planted by Hillier, is a 24mx24m series of interlinking gardens, based on the theme of crossing continents.

Michelle Fisher, another member of the student team, said: “It’s quite a responsibility, since Hillier is chasing its record 70th consecutive RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medal with this exhibit.”

Chris Francis, Hillier Garden Centre director, said: “Many youngsters often tell me their perception of horticulture is one of a subject full of stuffy, boring older people.

It is, therefore, very important for the future of our industry that younger people get to see how diverse and exciting the horticultural industry is.

“The young people at Writtle are the perfect ambassadors for this cause.

“They have an amazing passion for horticulture and project it to everyone who comes in touch with them.”