35,000 sunflowers spell ‘NHS’ at Knowsley farm

Farmer Olly Harrison’s floral tribute to the NHS is now in full bloom at his farm in Tarbock, Prescot.

Earlier this year in April 2020, the local farmer planted 35,000 sunflower seeds, across an acre of land to create 200ft high letters that now spell ‘NHS’. Done at the height of the still ongoing global pandemic, Farmer Olly expressed his gratitude to the NHS and key workers by sowing the seeds to create the large-scale flower installation.

The beautiful yellow sunflowers, symbolic of joy and happiness are Farmer Harrison’s ‘thank you’ to the hundreds of thousands of NHS staff who have made, and continue to make, huge sacrifices for our country.

Farmer Harrison said: “I planted these sunflowers during what felt like the peak of summer, where we experienced a long spell of beautiful, hot weather. While most people enjoy the sunshine I was wasn’t sure if the seedlings would make it. However, they have and here there are – a beautiful symbol of hope.”

Olly has also planted a field of sunflowers to create a maze for families to enjoy over the summer holidays with half the proceeds of tickets sales being donated to NHS charities and its charitable partners.

Farmer Harrison continued: “Although we still haven’t beaten the virus, we are now able to enjoy more freedoms and I hope that families will join us to enjoy the sunflowers this summer.”

Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, Cllr Shelley Powell, said:

“Farmer Olly Harrison is a great example of Knowsley Better Together where communities are coming together and supporting one another in whatever way they can. I have eagerly awaited the arrival of the sunflowers and they don’t disappoint – they are a beautiful show of support for NHS staff and residents. ”

Find out more here.