Royal florist inspires East Durham College students

On Wednesday, March 19, Simon Lycett, a leading UK floral designer known for his work at royal events and for clients such as Elton John, spent the day with floristry students at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus in Durham.

The visit followed the announcement that the college will represent the North East at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May.

Scott Bullock, principal and chief executive of East Durham College, said: “We were incredibly proud to have welcomed Simon Lycett to East Durham College.

“His visit has provided our students with an invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the very best in the industry.

“Experiences like this not only inspire creativity but also build confidence as our learners prepare to showcase their talents on a national stage at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

“We are grateful to our staff and sponsors for supporting these opportunities and helping our students achieve their full potential.”

Mr Lycett spent the day reviewing student designs, offering professional feedback, and sharing experience from his high-profile career.

His input comes as students prepare to take part in one of the world’s most prestigious horticultural events.

The day also brought together staff, sponsors, and supporters, including MKM Durham, Durham Parish Council, Jewson’s, the National Trust, and Bon Bloeman, who were given a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the collaborative efforts between students and the college’s floristry team.

Mr Lycett said: “After being made an RHS Ambassador for floristry and floral art back in 2022 and the team asked me if I wanted to become a judge and I said no I don’t want to become a judge, I want to become a mentor because I’m getting old and we need more florists – and how fabulous to be up here amongst so may florists of every age.

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“I’ve never seen such a brilliant gathering of creatives.

“The designs they are working on are so exciting as they exactly fit the brief, what they are creating is so unique and each of them has come to it with their own ideas and thoughts.

“It’s become a fascinating and very collaborative project between the students and the floristry team, and it’s using lots of different techniques – it’s going to be a phenomenal showcase of the fabulous world of being a florist.”