AWARD-WINNING bonsai artist Simon Temblett has received the Richard Perrin Award in recognition of his work for South Devon Bonsai Society.

Simon, who lives in Newton Abbot, is one of Europe’s leading creators of the centuries-old craft of bonsai, which can be traced back to ancient China.

The Richard Perrin Award is a tribute to a former South Devon Bonsai Society member who passed away.

It is awarded annually in Richard’s memory to a member of the society who has gone above and beyond for members.

Simon, as deputy chairman of South Devon Bonsai Society, assists with developing members’ skills and knowledge, while also preparing his own trees for competition across Britain and Europe.

Last year, Simon submitted a dawn redwood tree for the ExpoBonsai UK show in Crawley, and he scooped the top award in the Best Tree and Pot Combination category. That came after he also received two golds at the national Bonsai Show Live event in Telford.

Peter Evans, the society’s chair who is also an award-winning bonsai artist, said: ‘Simon is one of the most talented and experienced bonsai artists this country has.

‘We’re lucky to have him as a key member of our society, because his work for us is so far-reaching.

‘He is always happy to share his 40 years of bonsai expertise with members, as well as contributing to our events and planning for each new year.

‘Simon is a more-than-worthy recipient of the Richard Perrin Award. Richard set a high bar as a member of the society, and Simon carries on those standards to this day.’

The process of growing bonsai involves shaping and pruning the tree into a specific form and size. Bonsai trees can live for hundreds of years, with some being more than 1,000 years old.

Simon said: ‘I’m really honoured to receive this award. South Devon Bonsai Society is a wonderfully proactive organisation, full of talented and enthusiastic members, and it’s a privilege to be part of it.

‘I look forward to continuing to help the group grow and flourish, promoting all that’s rewarding about the growing art of bonsai.’

South Devon Bonsai Society meets fortnightly on Saturdays in the hall behind St Paul’s Parish Church, Paignton, 10.15am-12.15pm. For further information, email [email protected].