A SOUTH Lakes carpenter was given a royal seal of approval after taking part in a crafting project fit for the Queen.

Mastercraftsman Jonny Briggs has created the woodland walkway for the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Back to Nature Garden at the world-famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which is on display until tomorrow.

The carpenter, who lived in Ulverston for four years before moving in 2018, was part of a team that transformed the RHS Back to Nature Garden, co-designed by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge.

Mr Briggs, who now lives in Sedbergh, said: “During my time in Ulverston I was involved in a building project for Prince Charles.

“I have been informed it was actually His Royal Highness who recommended me for the royal walkway project.

The garden, which Mr Briggs literally laid the groundwork for, was co-designed by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge and landscape architects Andrée Davies and Adam White of Davies White.

Regarding his time in Ulverston, Mr Briggs said the town helped him with his creativity.

He said: “I found the town of Ulverston a very creative place, which is full of character and helped me during my time there.

“For example, the Hoad Monument was a particular spot I liked to clear my head after a hard day’s work.

“Over the period of three years, my wife and I transformed an old barn house into a two-bedroom house.

“The only reason we moved was to be closer to my wife’s work because travelling to the Kendal area everyday was taking its toll.”

Ulverston even left its mark on Mr Briggs’ parents.

“My mum and dad were understandably upset when we moved to Sedbergh as they enjoyed some of the old haunts around the town, including The Farmers.”

Mr Briggs' joinery journey started after being offered a nine-month apprenticeship with the Princes Foundation, which involved education on structural repairs to historic buildings, while managing projects.

Now running his own craftsman business, covering across the UK, Mr Briggs will be working on new projects in Penrith and Scotland, but wants to narrow his services more towards Cumbria.

"I do nationwide projects, but I aim to narrow my service to Cumbria only."