HUNDREDS of visitors picked up gardening tips from horticulture teachers Ernie Bingham and Jean Taylor when they visited Waterperry Gardens.

Now, following their deaths from cancer, a special celebration is being held to remember their lives and their passion for gardening.

Mr Bingham, 73, above right, from Banbury, and Miss Taylor, 56, above left, from Waterperry village, both died from the disease last year.

Father-of-two Mr Bingham, who died in April, had worked at the visitor attraction since 2001, while Miss Taylor, who died from a brain tumour, worked there from 2003 until 2010.

Now the garden centre is inviting friends and former students of Mr Bingham and Miss Taylor to the celebration on Wednesday, January 25.

Mr Bingham’s wife Margaret, and son, Stephen, a concert violinist, will attend the celebration when two willow trees will be planted in the ornamental gardens in memory of the former staff members.

Horticultural manager Rob Jacobs said: “Jean was assistant horticultural manager for nearly seven years and a key figure in developing the wide range of courses at Waterperry — in fact she used her incredible horticultural knowledge to teach many courses herself.”

Mr Jacobs described Mr Bingham as “one of life’s true gentlemen”, and added: “Ernie loved Waterperry, in particular teaching here, and built up a loyal and devoted following among customers and a permanent place in the hearts of many staff.”

Refreshments will be served at 10.30am, tributes paid at 11am, and the tree planting ceremony will take place at noon. Proceeds will be split between Mr Bingham and Miss Taylor’s chosen charities.