A Mauchline farmer has blossomed into an award-winning florist.

James Gemmell, of JG Flowers, picked up the top prizes of Florist of the Year South West, as well as Florist of the Year Overall Winner at the  Scottish Wedding Awards.

What makes James' achievement even more remarkable is the fact he's only been in the business for just under three years.

Focusing on wedding and funeral work, James originally started back in August 2020 by doing his sister's wedding.

Building on that, James has built on his reputation - so much so that he was made aware of his nomination for the awards back in October.

"I was made aware that I'd been shortlisted for the regional award, after I'd been nominated by a bride," James said.

"From there, I think it went down to votes and then I had to submit evidence through testimonials and photos of work for a judging panel to decide."

Given James' relative infancy in the industry, he was delighted to have made it this far in the voting and to be named alongside some of the top flower names across Scotland.

And the good news didn't stop there.

James added: "It was kind of a feeling of being happy to attend. I had no expectations really because I hadn't been doing it that long.

"There were plenty of other well known companies that I was nominated with.

"I went along just to experience it and for some networking as well.

"It was a bit unbelievable and a bit unexpected, but it was a really nice surprise. 

"The support has been great and I'm extremely grateful to have received this award".