A HAMPSHIRE nursery has been officially named the best grower in the world.

Hillier Nurseries, of Ampfield near Romsey, beat rival growers from China, Holland and Belgium to win the coveted title of “International Grower of the Year” and the Golden Rose award at a ceremony in Korea.

Hillier were put forward for the award by the National Farmers’ Union after winning UK Grower of the Year in February, scooping a 65th consecutive Chelsea gold medal in May, and a crucial contract to supply trees to Olympic Parks for the London 2012 games.

Jury chairman Doeke Faber, the president of the International Organisation of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), praised Hillier for its outstanding track record in innovation, sustainable production, marketing initiatives and product excellence.

Founded in Hampshire 146 years ago, Hillier now employs more than 450 staff in the county in their tree and shrub nursery divisions, two cash and carry outlets and 14 garden centres.

Mr Faber singled out Hillier’s contracts to supply trees to the Commonwealth Games, the Millennium Dome and London Olympic Parks for particular mention.

Hossein Arshadi, director of the Hillier trees division, said: “This is the culmination of a great year of achievement for Hillier in a difficult economic climate.

“Hillier is now officially the best grower in the world, which is a real testament not only to the quality of the Hillier offer but to the strength of UK horticulture.”

Hillier Nurseries chairman of Robert Hillier OBE VMH added: “We are extremely proud to have been awarded “International Grower of the Year”. It is a great honour and a tremendous recognition of the professionalism and dedication of the team at Hillier Nurseries.”

The International Grower of the Year competition is organised by AIPH and FloraCulture International, the leading horticultural magazine.