My Wiltshire Life - James Vincent

8:52am Thursday 12th April 2007

JAMES Vincent was born and grew up in Wiltshire and until four years ago lived in Bradford on Avon. Mr Vincent studied horticulture at Lackham College and started work at Palmer Gardens, Trowbridge, after gaining his City and Guilds qualifications.

He worked his way up to the position of general manager and has gained local fame recently following his redundancy, which sparked a protest from members of the public. He now lives in Trowbridge and is married to Brenda and has one stepdaughter. The couple celebrated the birth of their first grandchild Erin eight months ago.

What do you like most about living in Wiltshire?

How lucky we are to live in a county that has so many beautiful views, which allow you to appreciate the changing seasons. However, a joint first has to be the people. During my 21 and a half years at Palmer Gardens I have formed so many strong friendships with my customers which I have greatly appreciated recently.

Where would you recommend for a good evening out?

Either The Linnet at Great Hinton or the Lamb on the Strand. Both offer an excellent choice of menu, high standard of food, efficient friendly service and a great atmosphere.

Another recent discovery that has really impressed me is Squirrels Tea Room at the Hope Nature Centre. The lunchtime menu has a good choice and it's brilliant to see the people with disabilities who access this facility actively working.

Who would be your ideal dining partner and why?

The Education Secretary. I would like to discuss what government initiatives could be made available to promote horticulture. I was always amazed at the number of our younger customers who didn't possess basic gardening skills.

Which local landmark or attraction would you recommend?

The Pantheon at Stourhead. It's such a peaceful place with a beautiful view across the lake in which the reflections of the trees are particularly attractive in the autumn. We visited over Easter and were pleased to see swans nesting nearby.

What is your favourite book and why?

I've never had a particular favourite. My most used book was Hilliers' Manual of Trees and Shrubs. However, more recently I've spent a lot of time reading Palgrave Law Masters Employment Law (fourth edition) by Deborah J Lockton.

What is your favourite music and why?

An important piece to me is Nimrod, from the Enigma Variations by Sir Edward Elgar, as I had it played at both my grandparents' funerals. When I'm at home for background I'll play various tracks by Handel, Mozart, Beethoven or Rachmaninoff. When I'm driving I'll either listen to Classic FM or Radio 2.

How do you relax?

Either at home in my garden (I'm currently on "garden leave") or out walking with our two-year-old Welsh Springer spaniel Daniel. He loves to run round the fields between Albert Road and Hilperton Road. I hope that if the gap road goes ahead they don't build houses there as it's a lovely open space on our doorstep.

What keeps you awake at night?

At this time of year it would usually be the weather, if it were bad it would affect business. More recently though, my redundancy and the way I've been treated by Shaw Trust and also their statement, which I think is an insult to my customers, that people have short memories and will all be back after six months.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you take?

A boat, a map and a compass. I may not have a job anymore but I have a wonderful family, great friends and neighbours and after a day on an island, no matter how good the weather was, I'd be homesick for Trowbridge and want to come back.