As well as making the garden beautiful over the years, the Rev Nockles said they have had the hard job of clearing pathways and getting rid of a lot of tough shrubs. They have done such a good job it has become the backdrop of many wedding photos.

The couple, of Pochin Drive, Harborough, are in their early 70s and moved to Harborough on their retirement 12 years ago.

They enjoy gardening and, as members of the church, took over the care of the garden because they felt it was a contribution they could make to the life of the church and to this area of town.

The garden was laid out a long time ago in a formal pattern of feature bushes, paving and gravel. Ann said: "The position is very windy and largely shaded and does not lend itself to small flowering plants."

However, she has put in a few primulas along the edge of one border to add a bit of colour. She added: "The bushes are very mature and grow like mad and it is quite a job keeping them under control. I would describe them as sculptural with shape and texture and they are mostly evergreens."

The church children's group, The Pilots, have used the garden for a survey of mini beasts and have plans to put up a nesting box in the future.

The Phillips said they enjoy working on it and were surprised to be nominated. Ann added: "Quite a lot of people who are passing by stop for a chat and say that they like looking at it."