The volunteer head gardener at a popular Sudbury museum has been recognised with a prestigious award following 14 years of service.

Jane Lowe, who tends the garden at Gainsborough’s House, picked up the East of England regional prize for the Marsh Award for Volunteers in Museum Learning.

Mrs Lowe’s vision from the outset of her work was to create a garden true to its Georgian roots, to garden organically, create safe and accessible spaces for people of all ages, and ensure all-round planting interest.

A spokeswoman for Gainsborough’s House said: “We are so proud of Jane and delighted that her over 14 years of dedicated service to the very special garden at Gainsborough’s House was recognised on the national stage at the awards ceremony at the British Museum.

“The garden is a huge asset to the house, enjoyed by visitors from far and wide – and all credit for its praise lies with Jane.”

Mrs Lowe guides a small team of volunteers at the museum, fundraises consistently, gives informal tours to visitors and media and has also written about the garden in the museum’s in-house magazine.

The museum is currently embarking on a multi-million pound refurbishment project to build a national centre for the artist Thomas Gainsborough.