A government horticulturalist dedicated to training young people has been recognised with an award.

Roger Parris, a supervisory foreman in the Department of Parks, won the Public Service Excellence Award for October. He received the award from David Burt, the Premier, and Derrick Binns, the head of the public service.

Mr Parris oversees crews at the Botanical Gardens, the Arboretum, Government House and Tulo Valley Nursery. He also manages the Skills Development Programme run jointly by the parks department and the Department of Court Services to provide training and development to those aged between 19 and 25 who are interested in learning about horticulture and the trade of landscaping.

The Premier said: “Mr Parris is fully dedicated to his role as a public officer which serves as a platform for him to be a mentor to Bermuda’s youth and impact young lives in a positive manner. He is being recognised this month for his vision and innovation.

“Mr Parris has found innovative ways to use the Skills Development Programme to address employee shortages and to ensure important landscaping projects in support of community events such as the Botanical Gardens for winter fairs, the Port Royal grounds for the PGA golf event, and the Bermuda Railway Trail for the End-to-End event.”

The public service awards programme aims to encourage outstanding achievement, recognising public officers who deliver admirable service.

Each month an individual or team will be selected for exemplary public service accomplished in the previous 60 days.

Dr Binns added: “We are fortunate to have someone as passionate about cultivating Bermuda’s youth as Mr Parris lead the Skills Development Programme. Congratulations on your well-deserved success.”

The Skills Development Programme receives support from the Garden Club of Bermuda.