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As a venue for civic functions and royal visits, Nottingham's Council House always has to look its best.

For the past 39 years Janet Meakin has helped ensure just that. She's head florist, responsible for ensuring up to 12 major displays are kept fresh and being prepared to add new floral offerings for receptions and lunches.

Flowering seeds

Janet's love of all things horticultural began at an early age.

"When I was 12 I decided that was what I wanted to do. I just love flowers. You can do all sorts of different designs. I've made posies for royalty. It's quite interesting really."

Her professional career began as a gardener at Nottingham's Woodthorpe Park. In 1970 she began work at the Council House. By 1982 she'd become head florist.

Janet Meakin in her floral office

Coming up roses

Every Monday morning around 7:30 you'll find Janet at the wholesale market opposite Notts County's Meadow Lane ground.

That's where she stocks up on flowers for the council house. She makes sure council tax payers get the most for their money.

"I try to buy flowers that will last. Chrysanthemums and carnations."

Dazzling displays

Janet loves a challenge and, although most of her displays follow a set pattern, her floral talents have been stretched on several occasions.

One involved a special selection for the opening of the Goose Fair.

"They gave me a list of rides at the fair. I had to make the arrangement to depict a helter skelter and a Big Wheel which was a bit of a challenge. But it's nice to do something a bit different and out of the ordinary."

Never wilting

Janet has no intention of giving up her floral duties.

"I can't be doing too bad a job if they've not sacked me in 39 years."