We are a small team, increasingly working with and involving more people from the surrounding area – something which we are keen to do, for example, working with local woods people and using local resources.

The proprietors and sponsors, Andrew and Caroline Hunter, have been putting a lot of effort and time into making The Garden House something really special – more details in The Vision.

Our Estate Manager, Andy Holdaway, has a background in sustainability, horticulture and project management, having previously worked as a horticulture supervisor at Rhubarb Farm CIC, worked as Garden Manager at The Meadows Community School, co-run Wheelbarrow Organics – an organic fruit and veg box scheme, worked as a consultant on a new garden project for a special educational needs programme, working for Food Aware, and he has completed a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development Advocacy.  Andy has also been involved in various community projects, including setting up Chesterfield Green Drinks, he co-founded Transition Chesterfield, and he led a cycling promotion and training project called Fossil Power to Pedal Power.

Andy’s partner Sue has been a great help to The Garden House project and has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the estate regarding working with wildlife and people – her role for Surrey Wildlife Trust includes training Forest School Leaders.

The proprietors and sponsors, Andrew and Caroline Hunter, have two children.  Their son, David is a  committed conservationist focusing on sustainable woodland management, rural skills and related crafts in West Wales.  He is an instructor at https://coppicewoodcollege.co.uk and operates https://thecoppiceplot.com . Their daughter Lisa is a Registered Dietitian who is currently working as a Healthcare Dietitian for a large contract caterer (though is currently on maternity leave)