An "inspirational" volunteer has won a national award for helping budding youngsters branch out into gardening.

Peter Edwards has spent the last four years showing green-fingered pupils at The Rosary Catholic Primary School, in Heston, how to get growing.

The 82-year-old was named School Gardening Champion of the Year by the Royal Horticultural Society in recognition of his dedication to passing on his passion for the pursuit.

At an award ceremony in the world-famous glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley, on July 4, he was given an engraved trowel by ITV's Love Your Garden presenter Frances Tophill.

He also received £500 of gardening vouchers for the school, a selection of gardening tools, and the chance to work alongside RHS gardeners for a day in one of the society's spectacular gardens.

Fiona Bass, deputy headteacher of The Rosary Catholic Primary School, said: "Peter is such an inspiration to the children and they absolutely adore him!

"We, as a whole school – parents, teachers, governors and pupils – are delighted that he has received this award in recognition of all he does for our school."

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Judges weeded through a record number of entries in this year's competition before selecting Mr Edwards, who regularly spends five days a week passing on his expertise at the school, as the cream of the crop.

A video submitted by the school told how many pupils had lacked the opportunity to learn about the "marvels of nature" until he started running the gardening club there four-years-ago, following the death of his wife.

He recently helped youngsters create a memorial garden where visitors can reflect on members of the school community who have passed away.

Sarah Cathcart, head of education and learning at the RHS, said: "Peter is the embodiment of why we have this award – to recognise those whose dedication to nurturing the gardeners of the future has made a real impact on the schools they support.

"His endless enthusiasm and patience make him a real inspiration, and a truly deserving winner."