Mark Fletcher, Westland’s new head of horticulture, contracted the grow your own bug from a very early age after being raised on his parents vegetable farm.

His passion for getting the best results from plants and crops started at the age of six and has been a constant goal throughout his education and career.

Now, Mark is putting his expertise into enhancing new product developments within the seed and lawn seed category at Westland Horticulture.

But Westland is very familiar territory as Mark explains; “Before moving to Westland I was a key account manager at Syngenta.  During that time we worked together to produce the Unwins exclusive Gro-sure range, which guarantees results to the gardener.

“Moving to Westland has given me an amazing opportunity to take my skills to the highest level.  I will continue my work on the Gro-sure range, which has received outstanding feedback from retailers, and I aim to help create an even bigger impact in the marketplace.

“The grow your own trend is thriving and through our developments we will help keep the momentum going.   It also gives us the platform to engage with even more gardeners who are new to growing from seed, ensuring they get the best results.

Mark specialised in horticulture whilst studying for both his Masters Degree and PhD at Reading University and has also worked for British Polythene Industries, studying how to improve the growth of plants and vegetables in polytunnels.

“I thrive on bringing something completely new to the gardener and I’m particularly enthusiastic about venturing into new areas.  My role at Westland allows me to do this.” 

Edward Conroy, joint managing director of Westland Horticulture, said: “Mark knows the Gro-sure range inside out and has already played a significant role in its launch.  This is a great advantage for all and we choose to invest in people who will provide the ideal support for retailers.  His extensive knowledge both on the horticultural and commercial side provides the perfect balance for both our customers and ourselves.” 

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For more information on this press release please contact Graham Paskett, Charlotte Hopkinson or Alice Brett at Paskett Public Relations Limited, Unit 24 and 25 Friar Gate Studios, Ford Street, Derby, DE1 1EE. Tel: 00 44 (0)1332 258335 or 00 44 (0)1332 258336, fax: 00 44 (0)1332 258337 or e-mail: grahampaskett@paskett.co.uk, charlottehopkinson@paskett.co.uk and alicebrett@paskett.co.uk