BRITAIN’S most popular gardener attracted a big crowd at The Royal School, Haslemere, for its annual ‘Grow For It’ event.

Alan Titchmarsh launched his first Grow For It to inspire budding nature enthusiasts at the school seven years ago and returned on Saturday to host the biggest one yet, which was sponsored by Waitrose.

More than 600 children aged under 11 enjoyed activities ranging from pond dipping to mini-beast hunting, making a butterfly feeder to painting a rock bug, sowing grass caterpillars and planting a pot to take home.

The TV and radio gardening expert said: “I want to open their eyes to nature in a fun and engaging way.

“The aim of the event is to help children develop an understanding of and respect for our living world and to foster a desire to protect our environment.

“Helping families get children outdoors is very important.

“It allows children the opportunity to observe what is around them and understand their place in the world.

“Small things do make a difference. For example, if you plant a flower that is good for pollinating insects you will have bees and butterflies there in hours.

“The power of gardening and gardeners should not be underestimated.

“I believe gardening feeds our bodies and our souls. Being outdoors allows children to feel a sense of release and lets the imagination soar.”