TV gardener David Domoney visited Daisy Nook Garden Centre in Failsworth last weekend for a community fundraising event that raised £750 for cancer research at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. The event, held at the popular gardening destination just a short drive from Oldham, drew green-fingered locals eager to hear the horticulturist’s expert advice on seasonal planting.

Domoney, a familiar face on television gardening programmes, delivered a talk titled ‘Top Seasonal Plants’, highlighting the best varieties for spring and sharing practical tips on planting and care. Attendees left inspired to make the most of their gardens, with many commenting on the accessible and engaging style of the presentation.

“I really enjoyed sharing some practical planting inspiration and highlighting some of the finest seasonal stars for the garden with a great audience today,” Domoney said. “It’s wonderful that the event is also supporting a deserving cause.”

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, based in Manchester, is Europe’s largest single-site cancer centre. The funds raised from ticket sales will support its vital research into cancer treatments and patient care, a cause close to many in the Oldham community.

The event was organised by J. Parker’s, a Manchester-based garden retailer, as part of their ‘In The Community’ initiative, which aims to create accessible horticultural experiences across Greater Manchester. Edward Doherty, Marketing Manager at J. Parker's, said: “What a great talk and demonstration we had here today from David, seeing visitors leave inspired to make the most of the potential that their garden can provide. A big thank you to David for giving his time to help raise funds to support the amazing work that The Christie does.”

This event builds on a series of community-focused activities at Daisy Nook Garden Centre this year, including a recent event supporting Women in Horticulture and a free monthly gardening club for local schools. The programme has provided educational support to young gardeners across Manchester, with a particular focus on engaging pupils in hands-on learning.

Looking ahead, J. Parker’s is expanding its community work further this summer. Staff will collaborate with pupils from Worthington Primary School to create an international garden celebrating the school’s multicultural makeup through thoughtful planting. Additionally, a project with a primary school in Sale, Greater Manchester, will help students design and build a bee-friendly border for the Chorley Flower Show in July. These initiatives reflect a commitment to nurturing both horticultural skills and community spirit.

For Oldham residents, the event at Daisy Nook—located in Failsworth, adjacent to the borough—offered a convenient opportunity to support a major health charity while enjoying seasonal gardening advice. The Christie provides services to patients from across the region, making the fundraiser particularly relevant to local readers.

J. Parker’s continues to position Daisy Nook Garden Centre as a hub for community engagement, with future events expected to further strengthen ties with neighbouring areas like Oldham. The success of this fundraiser demonstrates the appetite for meaningful, local activities that combine leisure with philanthropy.