Garden Centre Association (GCA) inspector Liz Hutson is standing down from her role this year, with her final official engagement for the industry body at its annual conference next year.
Ms Hutson, who started inspecting member garden centres in 2012, will now concentrate more on the training and consultancy part of her business.

"We're really sorry to see Liz go but completely understand her decision and wish her all the very best with her exciting, new venture," said GCA chief executive Iain Wylie. "She has been a pleasure to work with."

Ms Hutson, who has worked for B&Q and Fisons, has more than 35 years of working in the gardening sector. She became a training and marketing consultant in 1990 and has since worked with numerous independents and multiples.

She explained: "I have enjoyed working with the GCA team, the privilege of visiting the member centres and meeting the staff. I will miss it, but unfortunately it's just not possible to do everything one would like and there are a number of new projects I want to develop."

The GCA is now looking for a replacement for Ms Hutson in all areas of the industry. Contact Mr Wylie for more information about the role.