NEW Exbury Gardens manager Nigel Philpott has quickly discovered one of the gardens' greatest assets - the ability to beat the heat.

Mr Philpott, 39, has taken over as commercial and marketing manager at the world-famous gardens after one of Britain's most scorching summers for years.

But after noticing the large numbers of visitors who made for the shady woodland and riverside walks, he said: "Exbury has been the perfect place in the heat.

"There are so many shady walks and glades as well as a cool breeze off the river. There are 200 acres, so there's plenty of space for everyone."

The former English Heritage marketing manager for the East Midlands has plans for the continued improvement of Exbury, but he said: "There is so much going on here already, with the sculpture exhibitions, the one-off events and, of course, the railway, that I think visitors already have plenty to do and see. But I think some family events during the holidays will be welcomed by everyone."