We Joined ITV’s This Morning for a Heartfelt Garden Makeover
We were incredibly proud to be involved in a heart-warming episode of ITV’s This Morning, joining Chartered Horticulturist David Domoney and a team of volunteers for a very special Front Garden Facelift in South Wales.
Broadcast live on the show, the transformation took place at the home of Heather, a 90-year-old grandmother nominated by her daughter, Sarah. Introduced by Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary, the segment saw David surprise Heather at her doorstep before beginning a two-hour garden makeover with help from our expert team and other volunteers, including the Royal Welsh Regiment.
Heather has lived in her home for decades, enjoying the view of the South Wales mountains from her front room. However, limited mobility had made it difficult for her to enjoy the garden she once loved. Her daughter hoped that a refreshed outdoor space would offer her mum a peaceful, accessible place to sit and enjoy nature again.
The garden also held deep personal meaning. In 2009, Heather’s grandson James was tragically killed in Afghanistan at just 21 years old. A small red poppy memorial has stood in the garden ever since, in memory of his life and service. Sarah, Heather’s daughter, has also received an MBE for her charity work in James’ honour.
Before vs After!
Our team from Old Railway Line Garden Centre was honoured to be asked to contribute to such a meaningful project. Alongside David Domoney and fellow volunteers, we supplied and planted over £1,200 worth of plants, bringing the new space to life with colour, fragrance and biodiversity.
As David shared:
“Gardens tell stories. This one reflects Heather’s life and her grandson’s memory. We’ve created a space that’s easier to move around in, filled with plants she can enjoy from her window or on the bench. It’s a small tribute with a big impact.”
The design featured an extended, level patio area for easy access, salvias lining a clear new pathway, and soft pink hydrangeas brightening the borders. Wall-mounted planters were installed to bring flowers to eye level without taking up floor space, and metal poppy sculptures – some doubling as bird water stations – paid tribute to James. A new bench, complete with a bespoke plaque, now provides Heather a quiet spot to reflect and reconnect with nature.
As David noted:
“These makeovers wouldn’t be possible without the support of our brilliant volunteers and contributors. I’m so grateful to Old Railway Line Garden Centre, MM Mac Ltd, Slade Contractors, the Royal Welsh Regiment, and friends of the family for their time and effort... It was an honour to work alongside everyone to create a beautiful garden for Heather, a fitting gesture for someone who has been such a support to her family.”
And from our very own Liam:
“It’s been a real privilege to be involved,” said Liam from Old Railway Line Garden Centre. “Garden centres do more than sell plants; we help people reconnect with nature. Seeing over 140 plants go into Heather’s garden today shows just how powerful that connection can be.”
This transformation is part of David Domoney’s wider campaign to inspire people across the UK to rethink their front gardens as accessible, life-enhancing spaces — not only for people, but for wildlife and wellbeing too.
You can watch the full story and final reveal now over on This Morning’s YouTube channel.