A garden centre in west Dorset has received an award for its work in sustainability.

Groves Nurseries and Garden Centre in Bridport has been recognised for making its business more sustainable and has received a Level 5 Sustainable Business Award.

Presented to by Litter Free Dorset, it is the highest possible achievement the action group gives out. 

It comes as a direct result of the small but impactful changes Groves, Little Groves and Ivy House Kitchen have made to the way they operate.

Eimeer Coyle, project officer for Little Free Dorset, particularly loved the recycling station for pots and compost bags and praised the used pens recycling pot the team has set up in their offices.

Groves also provide customers with paper bags instead of plastic, and its popular recycling station offers used coffee grounds from Ivy House Kitchen, which customers can take home and spread on their gardens.

Groves managing director, Charlie Groves, said: “We’re passionate about being as eco-friendly as possible at Groves and have been steadily working differently for years to ensure the way we operate is as sustainable as possible. 

"Last year we launched our own brand peat free compost, which is a hit with our customers.

“One of the huge benefits of this project is the audit stage, which helps highlight new improvements to implement. 

"From this we recently contacted our suppliers to encourage them to reduce their use of bubble wrap and pallet wrap, and joined the Refill Dorset campaign.”

As well as taking direct action to reduce their impact on the environment, Groves also promotes sustainable steps customers can take to help out. 

Not only with their popular and very well used recycling centre, but also with the information displayed around the store and hints and tips for gardeners and visitors.

Nursery manager Becky Groves believes the steps to eco-friendly gardening start earlier than we might think.

She added: “Making the right choice on plants can be crucial to reduce the need for spraying and interventions in the future.  Our knowledgeable Plants Team are always on hand to talk to customers about the best options for their garden.”