Clive Jeffries, who taught himself the skills of planting and design during lockdown, was celebrated at a special event at the Grand Theatre this week. He received a Community Champion Award from the People’s Library after turning his back garden into a flourishing showcase of flowers and vegetables — and then sharing his knowledge with neighbours, friends and local food banks.
From lockdown project to community inspiration
When the COVID‑19 pandemic forced Swansea into lockdown, Clive looked out at the bare patch of grass behind his house and decided to make something lasting. Over five years, he dug, planted and nurtured the space into a garden that now provides healthy food and a splash of colour for his community.
Vegetables grown in his Gorseinon garden are shared with friends, neighbours and donated to local food banks. His generosity and skill caught the attention of David Jones, Director of the People’s Library, who described Clive’s work as “the story of the 2020s.”
Recognition at the Grand Theatre
On November 25th, Clive’s achievements were celebrated at the Swansea Grand Theatre, where he spoke to an appreciative audience about the research and hard work behind his garden. He was presented with the Community Champion award by Michelle Thomas, Locality Manager at Community Lives Consortium, the charity that has supported him since 1989.
Michelle praised Clive’s determination and the way he has inspired others to see the potential in their own outdoor spaces.
Helping Swansea grow
In recent months, Clive has begun offering advice and practical help to other Swansea residents who struggle to manage their gardens. David Jones said:
“With Michelle’s encouragement, he’s become a gardening guru. Up until now he’s very kindly helped a number of people free of charge, but he’s offering a first‑class service and exceptional value for money. Swansea residents who want a garden full of beautiful flowers or delicious vegetables should look no further.”
Looking ahead
Clive says he wants to continue helping others discover the joy of gardening, and hopes Swansea will “come into bloom” in 2026 thanks to the skills and support he can share.
From a lockdown project to a city‑wide inspiration, his story shows how patience, hard work and generosity can turn even the smallest patch of grass into something extraordinary.
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