AFTER catching the eye of TV presenter Melinda Messenger, a green-fingered Sale man has been crowned winner of a nation-wide landscaping competition.

Timber and builder merchant Travis Perkin conducted a search to find the best landscaping job in Britain last month and Paul Tootill, of Paul Tootill Landscaping, took the top spot in the northern division.

Paul impressed judges, including Cowboy Builders presenter Melinda, with his Peace Garden at Lydgate St Anne’s School in Oldham.

Paul’s prize included a lunch with Melinda at Kensington Roof Gardens, as well as a luxury city break for two.

The 51-year-old said: “I love my work and take a lot of pride in it so to be honoured like this is really special. I’m not sure what’s better – wining the prize or getting to meet Melinda Messenger.”

The space that Paul created at the school was designed for children with learning difficulties. The garden includes a thinking corner, music corner, wildflower borders and a pond.

Melinda said: “Picking winners was incredibly hard but Paul’s entry stood out. I really enjoyed meeting him to say ‘well done’ in person – now I need to see if he’s free to come and transform my garden.”