The Horticultural Trades Association, supported by retailer member The Old Railway Line, met with Senedd Members (MSs) at its first event of bringing blooms into the Senedd.

Following the success of similar drop-ins in Westminster, the HTA set up the event to take plants, seeds, and the value of Welsh environmental horticulture directly to policymakers. Meeting over 20 Senedd Members and staff provided an opportunity to champion the voice of HTA members in Wales and discuss some of their top issues.

The event, sponsored by James Evans MS, saw HTA members' plants, bulbs, and Welsh poppy seeds being given away, alongside discussions on the HTA’s Welsh Growth Strategy, which highlights the sector's potential to deliver growth and solutions to pressing challenges.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs, HTA, commented: "We welcome the chance to ensure policymakers recognise the immense potential of environmental horticulture to drive economic growth, enhance our environment, and improve the health and wellbeing of communities in Wales. The HTA represents over 85 Welsh horticulture businesses, including retailers, growers, suppliers and landscapers. The Welsh sector contributes over £1 billion to the UK's GDP and supports approximately 32,000 jobs. This should be celebrated and recognised. It was a successful opportunity, and we thank James Evans MS for his support. We are looking forward to growing our representation and voice in the Senedd, to get even greater recognition of the opportunities that horticulture offers.”

James Evans MS - Member of the Senedd for Brecon and Radnorshire and Conservative Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, said: "My sincere thanks go to the HTA and The Old Railway Line for bringing this vital sector directly to the attention of the Senedd today. The HTA offers practical, homegrown solutions for a stronger economy and a greener Wales. We must ensure this sector receives the recognition and backing it deserves."

Katie Eckley, Operations Director, The Old Railway Line, said: "The Old Railway Line is a family-run, independent business proudly nestled in the Wye Valley, attracting customers from all over Wales and across the border. We welcomed the chance to talk about what we do directly with Members of the Senedd. Plants are the heart of our business, and it was fantastic to share some of them with those who are making policies impacting our business. As the HTA Council member for Wales, I am pleased to join the HTA to give a voice to the sector and encourage more HTA members to get involved, host visits, and share their passion for horticulture.”