Retired NHS worker “buzzing” after winning Dolphin Shopping Centre competition

Peter Richardson, a 65-year-old retired podiatry technician, will see his unique artwork feature on jars of rooftop honey sold at the Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole as part of a winning competition entry.

The competition gave shoppers an opportunity to design its popular rooftop honey packaging, with £100 of centre vouchers being offered to the winner. Individuals were encouraged to incorporate NHS and key worker themes into their designs, as all proceeds from honey sales are due to be donated to Poole Hospital Charity. After reigniting his artistic flair during lockdown, Peter decided to get creative and put his new drawing skills to the test by submitting an entry.

Peter commented: “As soon as I saw all proceeds were being donated to Poole Hospital, I wanted to get involved. I was admitted to the hospital last year and received nothing but outstanding treatment from staff, so wanted to show my appreciation in whatever way I could.”

Peter used multi-coloured shading throughout his design, reflecting the iconic rainbow symbol used to show support for NHS workers throughout the global pandemic. His artwork also featured two health workers in full PPE, onlooking a cluster of bees.

Peter continued: “Art is a form of expression – it’s about being creative and having fun, and I really enjoyed producing this design. The optical illusion I created with the honeycomb happened by accident, which is always a pleasant surprise. I am truly grateful that my artwork has been chosen and feel like I am giving something back, albeit in a unique way, to the NHS.

John Grinnell, Centre Manager at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, commented: “We had so many fantastic entries, so choosing a winner was a difficult decision. However, the level of detail which Peter provided on his design was exceptional. The finished label looks brilliant, and I cannot wait to buy a jar of my own.”

The Dolphin Centre’s rooftop honey is produced from two beehives within its sustainable rooftop garden. The product is set to go on sale in the next few weeks, with all proceeds donated to Poole Hospital Charity. The rooftop beehives are part of a wider commitment for the centre to become more environmentally sustainable.

The Dolphin Shopping Centre is currently open Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 5.30pm. Elderly and vulnerable customers are encouraged to shop between the hours of 9am to 10am, whilst NHS and key workers will be given priority between 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Each retailers’ specific opening times are available on their website.