Owner of Hillmount Garden Centre collects his BEM

Mr. Robin Mercer, the owner of Hillmount garden centre, has been collected the British Empire Medal awarded at the new year for his contributions to business and the economy.

Hillmount is a fourth generation family owned business that started as a small nursery over 80 years ago. It has expanded to 4 garden centres: Castlereagh Hills, Ards, Bangor in Northern Ireland and a recently acquired centre in Cheshire. 

He has been a prominent advocate for the horticulture industry and expressed pride in receiving the honour and described the day of the ceremony at Hillsborough Castle as special.

Mr. Mercer was presented with the medal by Lord Lieutenant Dame Fionnuala Jay-O'Boyle watched by his family.  He is looking forward to attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May.