People at the Heart of Garden Re‑Leaf Day 2026
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Liz Shea and the Rock Choir
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Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers Charity
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Jane Lawler organised the North Walk
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Southern walkers warmed up by Carolyn Syme
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The Glee Team
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Garden Re‑Leaf Day 2026 once again highlighted the remarkable generosity and camaraderie that define the garden industry, as supporters across the UK came together for Greenfingers Charity. The annual sponsored walks drew strong participation, with 61 walkers taking on the South Walk and 22 tackling the more demanding North Walk.
Before setting off, participants on the South route were energised by Carolyn Syme’s upbeat pre‑walk aerobics, setting a cheerful tone for the day. Musical contributions from Liz Shea and the Rock Choir, along with an acoustic performance by Jamie Donaldson, added warmth and community spirit along the route. The walks were expertly guided by Jane Lawler in the North and Will Armitage in the South, whose leadership and dedication ensured walkers felt supported throughout.
Across the UK, garden centre teams embraced the cause with creativity and enthusiasm. British Garden Centres delivered a packed programme of raffles, bake sales, photo shoots and charity challenges, while Blue Diamond engaged families with veggie‑planter activities and cake stalls. Haskins Garden Centres added their own flavour with in‑store raffles, and Old Railway Line’s popular quiz and curry night raised over £800.
Suppliers and partners also stepped up, with the Glee team and Hozelock running bake sales, Woodmansterne celebrating “Floral Friday,” and QVC contributing an exceptional £12,000 thanks to support from Richard Jackson.
Together, these individuals and teams continue to help Greenfingers create life‑enhancing garden spaces for seriously ill children and their families.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said, “Garden Re-Leaf Day continues to be one of the most inspiring moments in our calendar and 2026 has been no exception. To see so many people come together, whether walking, baking, fundraising or volunteering, is incredibly special.
“Every single effort, no matter how big or small, helps us continue our work creating magical, therapeutic gardens for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.”