The Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition 2003 results

Mel Clinch, who is studying for the National Diploma at Rodbaston College, won this year's IoH competition by a single mark in the final round. Mel, who is 29, benefited from the recent change in competition rules, which raised the age limit from 25 to 30. He was delighted with his success, but was not yet sure where he would travel with the Percy Thrower Bursary, worth £1,500. 'I'd like to increase my plant knowledge before setting up my own business', he said. 'China, South Africa and California are all possibilities'.
The Bursary is funded by the Percy Thrower Bursary Trust.

Runner-up was Ian Roofe (21), studying for his HND at Easton College. Ian led by a point or two for most of the competition, but was philosophical about being pipped at the post. 'I'll be back', he promised. 'I'm glad Mel got in there just in time'.

Third place went to Bryan Kaastra, a 23 year old Canadian studying for the RHS Diploma at the RHS Garden, Wisley

The finals were held at the Ness Botanic Gardens, Wirral, Cheshire. Keith Power, Chairman of the Shropshire Horticultural Society, organisers of the Shrewsbury Show, sponsors of the Final presented the prizes.

Tony Girard, IoH Vice President, was pleased with the way all the contestants acquitted themselves. 'These eight young people show a breadth of knowledge which will prove an asset for their own careers and a benefit to the industry', was his opinion.

Sponsors of the 2003 competition were: