Marek Debecki received the Bloomin’ Marvellous Gardener Award for his work at Beverley Court
21:51, 28 Oct 2025Updated 21:52, 28 Oct 2025
The winning communal garden at Beverley Court in Gateshead(Image: Stand PR)
A Gateshead man is being celebrated after winning the Bloomin’ Marvellous Gardener award in this year’s Loving Later Life Awards. Marek Debecki, a resident at Beverley Court has been recognised for his dedication to keeping the communal gardens in full bloom for everyone to enjoy.
Marek who moved in to Beverley Court, Anchor retirement housing in 2019, was nominated for his hard work ensuring the communal garden looks beautiful every year. From sunflowers to neatly arranged pots, Marek’s green fingers have made the gardens a joy for all who live at Beverley Court where he has been tending to the garden for over four years.
Speaking on win, Marek said: “I’m really pleased to have won this award, and I’m grateful too. It means so much to me to see people enjoying the hard work I’ve put into our communal gardens.”
Marek Debecki from Gateshead is being celebrated after winning the Bloomin’ Marvellous Gardener award in this year’s Loving Later Life Awards.(Image: Stand PR)
The annual awards ran by Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, recognise the achievements of residents who have made a real difference to their communities. A resident judging panel chose winners from across nine categories.
Our ChronicleLive Daily newsletter is free. You can sign up to receive it here. It will keep you up to date with all the latest breaking news and top stories from the North East.
The judges commended Marek’s commitment to the garden, commenting: “Marek has transformed the garden into a joyous, blooming space. It must be a delight for residents to sit out and enjoy the flowers. His dedication and skill shine through in every corner of the display.”
This year’s winners showcase how age is no barrier to making a difference. Highlights include a dedicated sustainability advocate promoting eco-friendly practices through creative gardening; a beloved therapy cat spreading happiness in a care home; and a digital champion who is helping residents embrace technology to transform their community experience.
The winning communal garden at Beverley Court in Gateshead
The winners were announced by Anchor’s Interim Chief Executive, Amanda Holgate, during a special virtual celebration where they received certificates to acknowledge their win, as well as £100 in gift vouchers. Amanda said: “At Anchor, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary achievements of our residents through our Loving Later Life Awards.
“It’s inspiring to see how our residents continue to learn, grow, and support one another in their communities. Every nomination we received tells a story of someone making a positive impact, and we’re proud to celebrate these remarkable individuals. Huge congratulations to everyone who won and was nominated.” For more information on Anchor’s Loving Later Life Awards, visit here.
Comments are closed.