AN award-winning garden designer is sharing his top tips with budding enthusiasts at an event in aid of children with life-limiting illnesses.

Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist Julian Dowle's special appearance at Webbs of Wychbold this Thursday is part of the garden centre's fund-raising for Acorns Children's Hospice.

The celebrity, who designed the BBC/RHS People's Choice Showgarden 2002, will be showing people how to become a garden designer and giving a rare insight into what goes on behind the scenes at Chelsea.

Webbs' director Marigold Webbs said they were incredibly lucky to have such a personality willing to share the secrets of his success.

Opportunity

"It should be an excellent evening with the opportunity to learn about garden design and benefit Acorns as well," she said.

The money raised will go towards the charity's Three Counties Appeal, which needs to raise £4m to build and equip a new 10-bed hospice in Bath Road, Worcester.

It is expected to open in 2004, providing care and support for up to 180 children and their families across the Three Counties.

The evening at Webbs, just outside Droitwich, starts at 6.45pm, for 7pm, with tickets costing £25 a head.

For more information and tickets call 01527 860000.