Spotlight on ...
This issue our staff spotlight falls on Lee McPherson ...
Name: Lee McPherson
Job Title: Qualified Gardener
How long have you been with East Lothian Council? 6 years. I was seasonal staff for one year in Haddington at the Peppercraig depot, and then I got a full-time job as an Amenity Operative. This job involved general gardening, litter picking etc. But 4 years ago I applied for the qualified gardener job at Peppercraig and now here I am. I’m a Qualified Gardener in Haddington and the surrounding areas including Garvald, Humbie, Gifford, East Saltoun and Athelstaneford.
What is your background? I was a photographer for 12 years, based in London. I came up here because I married a Scottish girl, and she wanted to move back up.
I had no experience in gardening before - I’ve always liked it - but I hadn’t done anything apart from a few weekend jobs. But I really enjoyed my six months as a seasonal worker with the council team, and I then started thinking about doing it as a full-time job. Luckily, that’s exactly what happened the following year and it’s just kicked off from there.
What does your job involve? My office is Neilson Park, and I look after this area with a couple of guys. I always need to have a wash because I get covered in dust - it’s hard work to get it all looking nice. It’s a time consuming job but I thoroughly enjoy being outside, especially during this time of year, this is what it’s all about.
We also do a lot work for the In Bloom Awards and are involved behind the scenes. Neilson Park is part of the judging route and we also look after the George Hotel corner and the station bed on West Road.
What do you like about your job? It’s good to be in the community, we’re always helping members the pubic with bits and pieces. The park is a nice place to be, when people walk through Neilson Park they often give compliments; especially once the bedding starts growing. I enjoy interactions with members of the public, I’m always asked questions.
I also love working with the squad, we have fun.
I’m also at college at the moment! I’m doing a SVQ 3 in Amenity Horticulture through the council. It’s great they’ve allowed us to do that.
What big projects have you been working on? Our biggest project recently was outside the Maitlandfield Hotel where we’ve replanted the bedding there in a range of red, yellow and purple shades for the Haddington 700 celebrations. It’ll also tie into the Beautiful Scotland Awards Ceremony which is taking place across the road at St Mary’s in September.
What’s your favourite plant this time of year? I like all of them, but I especially like the wild flowers on the roundabouts.