The Vice-Chancellor has presented Ivor Powell with a gift of engraved wine glasses to acknowledge 50 years’ service with the University.

Ivor Powell joined the University as a junior gardener aged 17. His first position was at the then newly-acquired site of Chilworth Manor, which had been neglected by its previous owner.

The 100+ acre site needed to be brought up to a presentable standard by the team of 4 gardeners.

“We had to disturb dozens of adders, who’d made themselves comfortable in the grounds,” remembers Ivor.  “I helped the local farmer on the Chilworth estate deliver a calf from one of their cows! And I had to pass a tractor driving test to be able to move tractors on the road between university sites.”

Ivor went on to study for professional horticultural qualifications and in 1969 was promoted to Chargehand Gardener and was involved in creating and building the stream through the centre of the main campus next to the Turner Sims Concert Hall.

In 1973 Ivor moved to become Chargehand Gardener at the Wessex Lane Halls complex:

“The grounds of South Stoneham House were originally landscaped by Capability Brown in 1722, so this was a challenge to maintain!” says Ivor.

Memorable moments were creating the Bayliss Border of Rhododendrons & Azaleas following a donation made by the Bayliss family. Coping with trees infected with Dutch Elm Disease and the 1987 storm which caused a lot of damage and brought down many trees.

In 1987 Ivor married Alison Macleod and their reception was held in Connaught Hall so that all the wedding guests could admire the lovely gardens and take good photographs.

Asked what he has enjoyed about his time as gardener Ivor replied:

“I’ve enjoyed working outside in the open air and keeping healthy. Meeting a variety of people including staff and students. The satisfaction of watching shrubs and trees grow to maturity. Participating in the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002, including meeting Tommy Walsh from the Ground Force TV programme!”