Martin Towsey will be judging the GroundsFest Innovation Awards which celebrate excellence and innovation across landscaping, amenity management, turf care and related industries.
As the gates open on GroundsFest 2026, judges will tour the showground and seek out the latest ground-breaking machinery, tools and services set to boost productivity and profitability. There will also be awards for products that have stood the test of time and are still used today by landscaping and grounds teams.
The 2026 award winners will be unveiled and celebrated in the Landscape Zone, Hall 3 at 3.30pm on 16 September at the GroundsFest trade event, which takes place on September 16–17, 2026.
What do you love most about your work?
I love the variation of the role and work. No two days are the same and I have been happy in my work from day one for the last 40 years, from apprentice to estates gardens manager.
What would you say to young people considering careers in the sector?
Go for it! - let people help you and you will stand on their shoulders in the future.
What would you say are your areas of expertise?
To look at the skills gap and education gap in horticultural education.
What is your fantasy future horticultural innovation?
Irrigation, climate change, the skills gaps and the providers gap in horticulture education
What are you most looking forward to at GroundsFest as a visitor?
Meeting friends and colleges in a likeminded setting and the hands-on approach this show brings.
