Celebrating 40 Years of Growth: Honouring 25-Years of Service

As we mark the 40th anniversary of Summerseat Garden Centre, it would not have been possible without our staff, and we want to celebrate one member who has been with us for over half of our journey: Gill Kirkman.

Gill joined us when we were just starting to expand and after her first day decided to come back for a second, and then again for the past 25 years – Tuesday to Saturday you will find her in the garden centre. She has spent time working in all areas of the garden centre and fondly remembers being ‘Gill at the till’ or working with Jack the Cat to entertain children.

‘I remember arriving to work and there being a small building with the tills and a tiny café and have watched the garden centre grow around me. John has been wonderful to work for all these years and watching his family grow up and now tower above me has been lovely’ says Gill.  ‘I look forward to springtime when the frost has clear, and it is time for the garden centre to come alive with new plants and colours.’

Gill has befriended many customers, and their 4-legged pets, over the years and every single one them has appreciated her friendship and advice.

‘Little Gill’ has punched above her weight since day one, pushing trolleys of stock twice as heavy as herself with a grim determination and refusing help. Climbing shelving for stock items she could not reach and dealing with many of the unpleasant incidents that come with having a large cross section of the public. Many customers are not aware, thankfully, that she is also an excellent first aider and has a great skill that we have underutilised, calligraphy or graphic lettering.

She appears to defy the passage of time so here’s to next 25 years Gill!!

Thanks for your invaluable contribution to the success of the garden centre,

John, Judith and the family.