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Eastleigh MP Buttonholed with Flowers by Student Florists

Chris Huhne MP with studentsChris Huhne MP with studentsChris Huhne MP with tutor

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne was impressed by Eastleigh College's wide range of vocational courses when he received a surprise bouquet buttonhole from the trainee florists.

Mr Huhne is pictured here with Lisa Crook, course teacher, and some of the 60 students learning the skills of floristry for future careers in the trade.

Some of the students – such as Jade Smith, aged 17, pictured here with Leanne Renshaw aged 16 – are working part-time with local florist shops, while others are studying to improve their chances of a job.

"The skill and patience that goes into these intricate floristry displays is impressive, and there will always be a market for beautiful flowers on special occasions like weddings, christenings and funerals of loved ones" said Chris Huhne.

"Everyone knows about Eastleigh College's reputation for high quality vocational qualifications in engineering, plumbing and so on, but there is a far wider range of courses than many people think until they look at the list" said Mr Huhne.

The National Certificate City and Guilds Level 2 course covers all aspects of floristry including formal arrangements, gift posies and intricate work for special occasions such as matching buttonholes for groom, best man and ushers and circlets and corsages for women.

For those interested in making floristry their vocation, or to simply develop a hobby, Eastleigh College is holding its second annual Floristry Show on 24th June from 7pm until 10pm. The show offers an insight into floral design by David Ragg, one of Britain's premier designers, and a chance to meet the tutors and to view a vast array of floral demonstrations created by the College's own newly qualified florists.

Eastleigh College offers a range of full and part-time floristry courses starting in September, open to anyone aged 16 or over. For further information about these and other vocational courses at the College, call 023 8091 1299.

Release date 16/06/2009