FLAMSTEAD nursery Majestic Trees has swept the horticultural industry’s Grower of the Year awards for 2011, winning the opportunity to travel to China to compete at international level.

The company, which was established just 10 years ago, celebrated a host of accolades in the competition, which is run annually by industry magazine Horticulture Week, and sponsored by the Horticulture Trade Association, the National Farmers Union and ASDA.

Sales and marketing professional of the year went to the nursery’s project design manager, Sarah Shynn.

Sarah said afterwards: “I’m pleased because it is recognition for all of us really. The avalanche of positive feedback, repeat business, and referrals is only possible because everyone in the company works together so well as a team, from Jane, who is first point of contact in reception, to the nursery team, who keep the stock looking great and load it so carefully for delivery, through to the planting and aftercare team, who ultimately have to bring the concepts to life on site.”

Nursery stock grower of the year also went to Majestic Trees for outstanding performance amongst growers of hardy trees and shrubs in the UK.

The final award was for Grower of the Year – Ornamentals for best UK grower across all ornamental categories, which includes bedding and cut flower growers.

The judges said: “Key factors in the firm’s success include great marketing of an excellent product and services supported by the hard work of a passionate team. Good results ensure an excellent relationship with the bank and the ability to drive growth through a �450,000 investment in the expansion of the nursery, now complete.”

Steve McCurdy said: “We always hope to come away with something on the night, but a clean sweep of all three! What a result! I am so, so happy for the team. It is the recognition they deserve. My wife and I have been in the horticultural business for years, and I can categorically say that, in all that time, the team we have now at Majestic is by far the strongest with whom we have ever had the pleasure of working. There isn’t a weak link anywhere, from reception right through to aftercare. Everyone is at the top of their game. I really couldn’t be more proud, or more pleased!”

As winner of this prestigious award, Majestic Trees will be travelling to China this autumn to compete for the title of International Grower of the Year.