A FORMER news reporter in Worcestershire has penned a biography about the life of a remarkable gardener.

Jen Green, who worked for the Tenbury Advertiser and Hereford Times, had no interest in gardening and was at first reluctant when she was asked to write a book about Bob Corbin - but she soon realised his fascinating life would make a great story.

Mrs Green said: "Building a book from more than 70 years of Bob's written and verbal memories and photographs has been an amazing journey shared with a remarkable and determined man. To have been able to complete the book during his ninth decade has been a challenge and a pleasure for all concerned."

However, getting the biography published through the usual channels would have taken too long and because of Mr Corbin's age, Mrs Green was anxious to get it finished and on the shelves as soon as possible.

So Potting Shed Publications was set up to publish, design and print the book and the whole project was carried out in Herefordshire.

Her book, which has a foreword by mayor of London Ken Livingstone, highlights the life Mr Corbin has lived, including his achievements as horticultural manager of the London county council and advising the Queen on the ceremonial lawns at Buckingham Palace.

Only 1,000 copies have been printed. The book costs £12.50 and is available from Potting Shed Publications, 5 Thomas Court, Green Lane, Leominster, HR6 8QJ, book shops and garden centres.

For further information, call 01568 616754. A donation from each book goes to gardeners' charities.