Dobbies Garden Centre is on the lookout for Ayr’s best gardeners with its Not Your Average Gardener Awards, launching today.

A team of star-studded gardening enthusiasts will be judging the awards, including broadcaster, Jo Whiley, Dobbies’ horticultural director, Marcus Eyles, ITV This Morning’s Daisy Payne and Dobbies’ ambassador and gardening influencer, Henry Agg.

Dobbies is looking to celebrate four gardeners, all with a passion for planting in their own unique way, with up to £5,000 worth of prizes and a virtual consultation with Marcus Eyles on how best to maximise their space.

Sustainability is at the core of the awards and Dobbies’ Ayr store is searching for those who support local wildlife, better the environment and use sustainable gardening techniques to enter. Dobbies team members will be on hand to offer the winners advice on how to spend their prize and bring their space to life.

There are four categories for the Not Your Average Gardener Awards, including Most Sustainable Gardener, Best Mini Garden Makeover, Best Houseplant Parent and Best Young Gardener (under 16 years).

Jo Whiley said she is delighted to be on the panel, adding: “Gardening is a huge passion of mine, and I would encourage anyone to try it as a hobby. Being out in your green space, no matter the size, is a great chance to take a moment for your own wellbeing.

“I’m really excited to be on Dobbies’ judging panel this year. Whether a houseplant enthusiast, a keen gardener growing fruit and vegetables on an apartment balcony, a child discovering ways to make their green space bloom or gardening newbie creating plant borders, I’m excited to hear how Brits are giving gardening a go no matter their space or experience.”

Marcus Eyles added: “We’ve seen a positive increase in gardening over the past year, with customers across Ayr looking to try something new in their green space. At Dobbies we’re always on the lookout for passionate gardeners and our Not Your Average Gardener Awards are a great opportunity to shine a light on talent across Britain.

“Sustainability is at the core of our awards, and we’re extremely proud to offer a strong range of sustainable Dobbies’ products, including our award-winning peat-free compost, that benefit both the garden and environment.”

Nominations can be submitted at dobbies.com by filling out a simple form and submitting images. Deadline for submissions is August 26. All entries will be reviewed by the panel of expert judges and winners will be announced in September.

For more information on the awards or to submit an entry, visit: https://www.dobbies.com/not-your-average-gardener-awards.