A highly successful horticultural trainee scheme is seeking applications for its fifth and final year at Picton Castle and Gardens near Haverfordwest.

The Heritage Horticulture Skills Scheme, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, operates at a number of heritage gardens across Wales.

The closing date for the enrolment of trainees on the next course – which commences in September – is tomorrow (Friday).

The fourteen month placement focuses on the practical side of horticulture and offers an opportunity to hone skills in specialised accredited modules.

Students also benefit from a £11,000 bursary, undertake RHS Level 2 Practical Horticulture and a new Level 3 heritage qualification created through Lantra – further demonstrating the high level of practical com - petence graduating students achieve. Three people from Pembrokeshire graduated from the scheme this month.

Adam Freeman of Pembroke, Ruth Morris of Lampeter Velfrey and Claire Poynter of Milford Haven undertook the placement under the leadership of head gardener Rod Milne. All have found related jobs.

Find out more on the HHSS website hhss.co.uk