The Garden Centre Group digs deep for the RAF Benevolent Fund

The Garden Centre Group is bringing patriotism to flower beds across the country with the launch of their red, white, and blue themed seed packets commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Great War and honouring those who served their country both then and now.

'Flying the Flag' sweet pea and 'Per Ardua ad Astra' cornflower packets are on sale in Garden Centres across the country.  Each packet contains a mixture of seeds for red, white, and blue flowers, allowing gardeners up and down the country to create their own displays incorporating the colours of the Royal Air Force roundel.

The Garden Centre Group will donate 50p from the sale of every packet sold to the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity.  Additionally, to help celebrate the birthday of the RAF (1 April), Air Cadets will be helping to pack bags at Garden Centres across the country in late March and early April.

"The Garden Centre Group is delighted to be working with Thompson & Morgan to produce these commemorative seeds," said Tim Clapp, Head of Horticulture for The Garden Centre Group.

"Donating a portion of the proceeds to the RAF Benevolent Fund honours those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and helps both serving and retired RAF personnel and their families."

"Planting a patriotic RAF inspired flowerbed with these fantastic seeds is such a great way to celebrate the RAF's 96th birthday this spring," said Mike Neville, Director of Strategy and Fundraising at the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. 

"The generous donation from the sale of each seed packet helps us to fulfil our mission, providing financial, practical, and emotional support to all members of the RAF family."

The seed packets also highlight the upcoming Kenley Air Show 2015, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund.