A family in Airth has been awarded first prize in the village’s annual garden competition after transforming the outdoor space of their new-build home over the last 18 months.
From blank lawn to year-round garden
Susan and Scott Gardner converted a simple patch of lawn on Mercat Crescent into a carefully considered garden designed for use throughout the year. Their project — which included planting, landscaping and the creation of a sensory area — won the top spot in the competition organised by Airth Parish Community Council with support from the Airth Highland Games committee.
The winning entries were assessed by Falkirk East MSP Martyn Day, who visited dozens of gardens across the community earlier this month to choose his top three. The Gardners’ plot impressed the judge and was selected as the overall winner.
Family effort and practical design
The couple say the garden has been a family undertaking. Susan explained that her father, who runs a landscaping business, helped with major tasks such as laying a patio, and that husband Scott was frequently called on for practical jobs around the plot.
“I was really surprised when we were announced as winners, but delighted. It has been a lot of work but it’s something that I really enjoy doing. Now that it is all finished and planted, it probably takes an hour a day to look after, but I find it a welcome break from working in computers and sitting in front of a screen all day.”
Susan described the overall scheme as having a rustic theme that also incorporates architectural elements. Planting was chosen to provide interest beyond the summer months, and a dedicated sensory area was included to suit their son Austyn, who is 15 and has autism. The garden also contains leisure features, including a sauna and hot tub.
What this means for local gardeners
The Gardners’ approach highlights several practical points for anyone improving a small suburban plot:
- Design for all seasons — choose plants and features that give year-round interest.
- Include sensory elements if the garden will be used by people with additional needs.
- Balance low-maintenance planting with features that provide structure and require occasional attention.
The award will be announced formally by the Airth Parish Community Council. The recognition reflects not only the visual result but the sustained effort involved in converting a newly built property’s exterior into a usable and inclusive outdoor space.
| Winner | Location | Judge |
|---|---|---|
| Susan and Scott Gardner | Mercat Crescent, Airth | Martyn Day (Falkirk East MSP) |
The success of the Gardners’ project may encourage other new-householders in the area to view garden design as both a recreational pursuit and a way to enhance family life and accessibility.
