My Story
It all started with an otter! Watching the 1969 film Ring of Bright Water, I was captivated by the beauty of Scotland’s wild landscape and devastated by the tragic death of the otter, Mij. That moment sparked my deep love for nature and conservation.
Growing up, I spent summers on the Isle of Man, where the beauty and tranquility of the Island left a lasting impression and created a lifelong bond with this land. This connection with the sublime beauty of natural landscapes, along with my passion for nature, led me to study Environmental Science and Landscape Architecture and shaped my future career.
I met my husband, Steve, also a Landscape Architect, whilst we worked together in Merseyside. Deeply formative years followed as I went on to work on the creation on native habitats, including woodlands and wildflower meadows. During this time my botany skills and a passion for plants began to bloom. Steve and I founded Prescott Associates in 1983, designing landscapes and gardens, including notable work at Chelsea Flower Show and the Liverpool International Garden Festival. Our move to the Isle of Man in 1991 gave us the chance to work on diverse projects, from government commissions to creating personal, private gardens. It was these intimate garden designs, working with individuals to bring their visions to life, that I found the most rewarding.
Later, my love for nature’s healing powers led me to study Herbology, further deepening my understanding of the therapeutic value of plants, their uses and cultivation. Steve was hugely supportive of me taking this course, despite the fact that he was by then undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. After Steve’s passing in 2017, and as his legacy, I founded The Manx Herbalist in 2019, focusing on sharing the benefits of medicinal herbs and living in harmony with the natural world.
In 2024, I merged my garden design practice with The Manx Herbalist, combining my expertise in both Landscape Architecture and Herbology. Now, I offer a blend of services, whether you’re looking for a beautiful, nature-inspired garden design or seeking ways to incorporate healing plants into your life.
Whether you want a unique garden designed with care, guidance on using herbs for wellbeing, or simply tips for creating a peaceful space to complement your home, I’m here to help. My services are for anyone who loves nature, values their wellbeing, and wants to bring more of both into their everyday life.
I look forward to hearing from you.