Rob and Margaret Isdale, a devoted couple who have fostered over 150 children, recently addressed viewer criticism of their garden transformation featured on ITV’s Love Your Garden. The heartfelt project, arranged secretly by their daughter Fiona, came after Rob’s recovery from a quadruple heart bypass surgery.
The Surprise Garden Revival
During his recuperation, Rob spent more time outdoors and jokingly told Fiona it would be ideal if Alan Titchmarsh revamped their garden. Unbeknownst to him, she submitted an application, leading to the 2019 makeover inspired by The Secret Garden.
Rob recalled the moment: “I had been in hospital for a quadruple heart bypass. When I came home, we stood in the back garden, and I said as a joke to my daughter, ‘It would be good if Alan Titchmarsh could come and do my garden.’ That’s how it all began.”
Design Highlights and Lasting Appeal
The team created a traditional landscape with a mock monastery wall, Elizabethan-style elements, and a revamped shed resembling ancient ruins. Rob described it as “nothing that I expected,” but praised the outcome: “They made it look a bit Elizabethan, even up to the shed. Even when it’s a bit untidy, it looks the part because of the design.”
Over the years, Rob has adapted the space, turning the shed into his art studio for painting. The couple removed only a tree blocking their kitchen window view and light, otherwise preserving the original vision.
Addressing Viewer Backlash
Recent airings drew complaints on social media platform X, where some viewers called the garden “ruined” by bricks, concrete, and an overly crowded design. One user noted it was “too crowded and busy,” though added, “as long as they like it.”
Rob dismissed the negativity: “We’re more than happy with the result. I saw some things online—there’s a bit of fake news claiming we were disappointed, which saddens me because it couldn’t be further from the truth. They did a brilliant job. Alan Titchmarsh was great, and we have no complaints at all.”
Alan’s Inspirational Touch
Alan transformed the shed into a mock Tudor design with crumbling brick columns he called “ancient looking follies.” He aimed to honor the couple’s fostering legacy: “I want this new garden to make them feel as cared for as the children who come to their home.”
At the emotional reveal, Alan pointed out “ruins of an old abbey” in the garden. Margaret called it “brilliant,” while Rob, tearful, responded: “I knew it would be special, but that’s extra special. Thank you so much.”
