The Greenfingers Charity inaugural Floral Ball, held on Thursday 26th June 2025 at the breathtaking Coombe Abbey, raised a phenomenal £60,000 – a fundraising milestone that will help propel the charity into its next 25 years of creating magical, therapeutic garden spaces for children’s hospices across the UK. Garden Centre Buyer editor, Charlotte Cowell, was delighted to attend with our friends from Hornby George PR, whose director, Kimberley Hornby, was part of the organising committee for the spectacular event alongside Greenfingers’ director of fundraising and communications, Linda Petrons.
The sell-out event took place under glorious summer sunshine, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening of celebration and generosity. Guests were welcomed with a champagne reception and a surprise performance by the London Show Choir, before making their way into a beautifully decorated marquee for a sumptuous three-course dinner. Throughout the evening, stories and memories from Greenfingers’ inspiring 25-year journey were shared. Fundraising was in full swing thanks to a lively auction and raffle, while the night itself was filled with love, laughter, and a powerful sense of shared purpose.
A particularly special moment of the night came when Greenfingers Founder, Richard Jackson MBE, recently recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List, addressed guests with a few heartfelt words about the origins and growth of the charity. His presence served as a poignant reminder of the vision and dedication that have shaped Greenfingers from its humble beginnings into a national cause close to so many hearts.
As the evening unfolded, the celebrations continued well into the night, with dancing and a lively silent disco bringing the night to a perfect close.
Speaking after the event, Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications, said: “The Floral Ball exceeded all our hopes and was a truly magical evening of celebration, generosity, and heartfelt moments. Raising £60,000 is an extraordinary achievement and a powerful reflection of the kindness shown by every guest, sponsor, and supporter. On behalf of all of us at Greenfingers – and the many children and families who will benefit from time spent in our gardens – thank you. Your generosity means the world to us.”
Boyd Douglas Davies, Greenfingers Chair added: “What a night! We are so grateful to everyone who helped make the first-ever Floral Ball such a roaring success. The atmosphere, the generosity, the laughter, it all worked to create a night to remember, and a perfect way to honour Greenfingers’ 25th anniversary. Here’s to the next 25 years. We look forward to celebrating with you again next year!”
Greenfingers is set to return to Coombe Abbey in 2026
Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event, the Greenfingers Charity is thrilled to confirm that they will be returning to Coombe Abbey next year, the date for the diary is Thursday 2nd July 2026.
For more information about Greenfingers Charity or to register your interest for the 2026 Floral Ball, please visit: www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk or email
