Prince Edward Officially Opens New Hydroponics Unit

20th November 2018

By Lauren Jones Multimedia Reporter

A state-of-the-art hydroponics unit in Ellesmere Port has been officially opened by the Earl of Wessex.

The Bridge Community Wellness Gardens and Farm welcomed Prince Edward on Monday, November 19 to officially open the 'The Earl of Chester Hydroponics Unit.'

First of its kind in Cheshire, the new hydroponics unit will grow plants without soil by using mineral nutrient solutions in water solvent.

Plants can be grown with only their roots exposed to the solution and the farm's staff are growing fruit,vegetables and exotic micro greens for restaurants in Cheshire.

Farm and wellness gardens manager Clair Johnson said: “It was fantastic to have a visit from Prince Edward and to show him the amazing work we do here.

“The hydroponics unit is an exciting addition for us because it allows us to grow plants indoors without soil, gives us faster growth all year round and saves on water usage.

“We love to encourage our wellness clients to overcome their mental health and learning difficulties and find new skills.

"And they do every day. It’s so inspiring!”

During his visit, Prince Edward was given a tour of the farm where he met staff and volunteers working in the routing shed, the bee friendly Mandala Garden, the seeding tunnel, solar dome and polytunnel.

He also unveiled a plaque on the site marking the official Royal visit.

Chairman of Bridge Community Wellness Gardens and Farm Francis Ball said: “I’m incredibly proud of what Clair and her team of staff and volunteers have achieved here.

“Pretty well every day we are reduced to tears by the gratitude of a client, or client’s parent or carer, who gain so much benefit from spending just a few hours with us.

"It’s inspiring and it drives us on to Grow Better Lives.”

Prince Edward also paid a visit to pupils at Neston High School on Monday.