Prison allows more to view its gardens

While 40 would normally be the limit, this year that number was increased to 60, but there was still a waiting list.

Dave Le Feuvre, the prison’s head of education, training and regimes, said that working in the garden was one of the most sought-after jobs and inmates had to work their way up to it, starting off with cleaning when they arrived and only later being offered the opportunity to work in the garden, kitchen, library or workshops.

A wide variety of fruit and vegetables are grown in the garden and glasshouses, from berries, peaches and figs to potatoes, beans, sweetcorn, broccoli, pak choi, melons, cucumbers and more.

The vast majority, about 90%, of the fruit and vegetables grown in the garden, were used by the prison, he said.

And then there were the flower beds and lawns, which were in immaculate condition, having just been seen by judges for this year’s Floral Guernsey competition.

It was the first year the prison had entered, taking part in the community garden category. ‘They seemed to be impressed,’ said Mr Le Feuvre.

As well as being able to eat their own produce, some of those working in the garden were also due to take NVQs in horticulture, highlighting the importance of the garden.

‘For them as well it’s being outdoors in the fresh air and getting qualifications and it’s good for their mental health,’ said Mr Le Feuvre.

Among the prisoners meeting guests was one who had put his pre-existing gardening skills to good use.

‘I feel great coming out here,’ he said. ‘It makes you feel you aren’t in a prison since I get to work outside.’

He was one of several inmates who are also studying for exams. ‘I’m doing English, maths and yoga,’ he said.

‘It’s therapeutic and good for your mental health,’ said another prisoner.

A carpenter by trade, he said he had recently built the shed which was being used as a shop for guests to purchase fruit and veg or wooden items made by the inmates.

‘It gets you out in the fresh air. I’ve been growing melons, too.’

Among the guests were Ian and Jane Hunter, who said they had gone along to see the work being done by the prisoners.

‘I just like to appreciate the work they do,’ said Mrs Hunter. ‘It’s phenomenal.’

‘If people have done something wrong, you have to give them a chance to rehabilitate themselves and this is the ideal thing,’ said Mr Hunter.