A shop assistant at Love Plants is celebrating his 10 year work anniversary at the tree and plant centre in Shrewsbury. Harry Bramley started at LovePlants with a Saturday job at age 15, when he was still attending Mary Webb School and living with his family in Ford. Harry said he spent his childhood outside amongst nature exploring woods, which is where his passion began.

After Mary Webb, he went to Walford College to study Countryside Management, whilst still working weekends at LovePlants. Once he completed his course, he was offered a full-time job at the business. Harry covers the hard labour tasks such as power washing and painting, and quickly became heavily involved in managing the Christmas tree orders. Soon colleagues and customers affectionately started calling him the ‘Face of Christmas’.

“I love Christmas! I love Christmas trees and how everyone is in a good mood – having that brings joy to the job,” said Harry. “When I’m working with our Christmas trees, time flies by; it’s my favourite time of year. We get many customers returning year after year, and I’m often told they know it’s Christmas when they see me!”

Now aged 26, Harry says he is very happy at LovePlants. “The work is suited to me – I’m a grafter who loves being outside. I’ve been here a long time, and I’ve been looked after so well by the management team. Whenever I’ve had a problem, they have always been there for me. Salop Leisure is like a family.”

LovePlants is based in Emstrey, alongside Salop Leisure, Love2Stay, and LoveCoffee. It distinguishes itself from a run-of-the-mill garden centre by stocking purely plants and trees.

“We spend a lot of time nurturing our plants and trees – many of which are much more unique and often bigger than you will find elsewhere. The staff have in-depth knowledge that they are always willing to share with customers. I’d recommend a visit soon, with it being the perfect time to get flowers planted for spring.”

When asked what his favourite moments have been in the last ten years, Harry said it was meeting his best friend, who used to work with him, and meeting his partner, who came to Salop Leisure to run a stand promoting the RSPB. “I helped her set up her stand, and then bought her a brownie from LoveCoffee. One year later we bought our first house together!”

Mike Harris, joint managing director at Salop Leisure, said, “Harry has become the face of LovePlants and Christmas here. His dedication and infectious enthusiasm mean he is adored by our customers and staff. Thank you to Harry for working so hard over the last ten years. We hope to celebrate many more anniversaries with you in the future.”

To find out more about LovePlants visit www.love-plants.co.uk.