Keeping it in the family is the secret behind the success of one Gower business.
Gwyneth Rees, of Welsh Moor, makes Llanrhidian’s Greyhound Inn look as pretty as possible in the summer months to help out landlord and nephew Chris Mabbett.
The business won the best pub category in the annual Swansea in Bloom competition last year thanks to its eye-catching combination of hanging baskets, wall plants and potted plants.
Geraniums, begonias, pansies and lobelias are among the flowers on display.
Chris, a former lorry driver who’s run the business with wife Emily for three and a half years, said: “We think it’s hugely important that a pub is very clean and attractive and the combination of flowers and plants in the summer certainly makes the business look more appealing and welcoming.
“We’ve recently enjoyed one of the busiest weeks we’ve had since our time in the pub and we’re expecting a lot of people to stay in the UK this summer instead of going abroad. This is why it’s vital we maintain the high standards we’ve set.
“My aunt Gwyneth is very interested in gardening. She prepares everything for display and helps with watering and feeding the flowers and plants over the summer.
“Swansea in Bloom is a fabulous competition and we’ll definitely be entering again this year.”
Gwyneth is now busy preparing the displays for the Greyhound Inn and is also planning on entering a separate Swansea in Bloom category with her two self-catering cottages on Gower.
She said: “I’m crazy about flowers and they definitely make a big difference to the way people perceive communities and towns.
“It can be very hard work keeping up with the feeding and watering during the summer months but it’s worth it to see the flowers in full bloom and the satisfaction people get from them.
“Everywhere looks so much nicer with floral displays. They tend to put a smile on people’s faces.”
Swansea in Bloom is an annual competition run by Swansea Council aimed at making Swansea a more attractive place to live, work and visit.
Other categories include best allotment plot, best new entrant, best restaurant, best cafe, the green gardener award, the young gardeners sunflower competition and best container garden.
Application forms are now available for Swansea in Bloom that offer people the chance to nominate either themselves or others for an award.
A deadline of Friday July 2 has been set for entries and people are encouraged to use environmentally-friendly methods.
Have a look at www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseainbloom for more information or call 01792 635124.
