THE deputy to the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire has given a special award to a Latteridge company in recognition of its work supporting people with disabilities and support needs.

Mr Frost, of Thornbury, and his wife Carolyn, visited Organic Blooms on Wednesday, June 3 to commend the business for its work and present owner, Jo Wright, with a community award, given to those he believes have been inspirational in benefitting the county.

Mr Frost, who has just completed a year as High Sheriff of Gloucestershire and is now a deputy to the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Dame Janet Trotter, said: “Organic Blooms has been going for nearly 10 years now and I have to say that it only came to my notice just over a year ago and I was intrigued as to how it all came together.

“Jo is one of those rare individuals who has the determination and will to run a thriving business with the support of individuals of all ages who have disablement of any kind.

“Jo and her dedicated team have built up a brilliant organisation that enables individuals to reach their potential with many going on into full-time employment within the horticultural and floristry market-place.

“Jo has a special aura and is inspirational and a great advertisement for South Gloucestershire.”

Mrs Wright, 42, said: “The award came as a result of the recognition of our work and contribution to the community.

“We don’t do this for the recognition here – we all love what we do – but it is nice to get the recognition and the award is now up on the wall for staff and visitors to see.

“We’ve helped hundreds of people, from all different backgrounds and ages over the years and the award means a lot to everybody here.”

Organic Blooms is a Community Interest Company that offers educational, therapeutic and recreational opportunities as well as encouraging individuals to gain city and guild qualifications.

The social enterprise uses working with nature to benefit local people with disabilities and support needs, has adapted its working nursery and employ specialist staff to support people to gain valuable skills and the confidence to get into work.

For more information about the social enterprise visit www.organicblooms.co.uk.