At Aria Court Care Home in March, Marion Tyers is more than just a dedicated team member—she’s the passionate force behind the Happy Potters gardening club. As National Gardening Day approaches on April 14th, Marion and the residents are already deep into their gardening projects, nurturing both plants and friendships along the way.
Marion’s journey to Aria Court began after 24 years of working at Tesco in March. Joining the home as part of the housekeeping team, she quickly found her calling in working closely with the residents. “I love working here—the residents are like family. I’m here for them, and I’m passionate about the Happy Potters,” she shares.
Many of Aria Court’s residents have deep-rooted connections to the land, having worked in gardens, on farms, or in agriculture throughout their lives. They bring a wealth of knowledge to the gardening club, which Marion is always eager to learn from.
“I’m not a great gardener,” she admits, “but with some knowledge and a lot of love, things do fall into place. The Happy Potters is always about what the residents want—they often come up with ideas, and we do our best to make them happen.”
The Happy Potters meet three times a week and the sessions are well attended by the residents who enjoy the gardening work and spending time with Marion.
“I don’t know how she puts up with us, “ laughs resident Norman, a key member if The Happy Potters, “But she is always there smiling and encouraging and with a laugh and a joke for us – she’s just the job.”
Marion works closely with the Aria Court Lifestyles team to bring them green-thumbed dreams to life. This year, Aria Court is embracing new creative projects, including eye-catching wall art and a living wall both inside and outside the home. Last year’s wood-slice caterpillars, created by residents, were proudly displayed at St Wendreda’s Church and are inspiring this year’s artistic ventures.
The vegetable garden remains a much-loved feature at Aria Court, and this season’s produce will be shared with the local RSPCA centre. With ambitions set high, Marion and the team are also aiming for recognition in the Athena in Bloom competition, hoping their dedication will bring home some prizes. The happy Potters will also be selling some of their plants and baskets at the Aria Court Summer Fayre this year.
Marion’s enthusiasm extends beyond gardening—she is a familiar and beloved presence throughout Aria Court. Whether helping with breakfasts, taking residents for walks in the gardens, or simply stopping by for a friendly chat, she makes everyone feel valued.
She explained, “I love coming to work—it’s what has kept me going over the past few years. As soon as I walk through the door, I feel welcomed. I know I can be a bit chaotic, but I’m a giver, and I do all I can to keep the residents happy.”
Outside of work, Marion’s life is just as full. With five children and eight grandchildren, she keeps busy with family life while also indulging in her hobbies, which include line dancing, bingo, Motown music concerts, theatre, and travel.
For those at Aria Court, Marion is more than just a team member—she’s an inspiration, bringing joy, energy, and a love for gardening that enriches the lives of everyone around her. As National Gardening Day approaches, her dedication is in full bloom, just like the beautiful gardens she helps to create.
