A GIFTED green-fingered student has reached the national final of a prestigious competition.

Horticulture student Owen Groves, who studies at Pershore College, won the regional round of the Young Horticulturist of the Year Award and will now take on his peers from across the country at the University of Liverpool on Saturday, April 13.

The 23-year-old BSc student, from Fairwater, Cardiff, will be cheered on by classmate Douglas Mackay, who won the coveted accolade last year.

Mr Groves said: “Douglas and I have been on the same course for the last three years – he has told me what to expect and he’s told me the kind of questions they will ask, which is handy.

“This is the first time I’ve entered the competition so I’m quite surprised I’ve got through to be honest.

“I was told that you can’t really revise for the competition – you either know it or you don’t. I’m hoping to go up the final with a few friends for support.

“I’m going to do my best and hopefully win. Everyone’s hoping Pershore College can win ittwo years in a row.”

Julie Page, assistant principal for land-based studies at Pershore College, said: “We’re really proud of Owen winning the regional final of the competition.

“Of the people taking part in the regional finals this year, all of them were either studying with us here or were former students.

“Pershore College has a proud tradition of doing well in the finals and we really hope we can do well again this year.”