Andrew McConville credits life turnaround to green fingers

Andrew McConville studying a Level 3 Horticulture course at Hopwood Hall

Andrew McConville claims a remarkable turnaround, from a life of crime to one of charity, is down to practicing horticulture and the more organic lifestyle it has taught him.

Andrew had what he described as a ‘misspent youth’. His brother died when he was young, which he says sent him down a criminal path due to the pent-up anger.

He said: “My brother meant the absolute world to me, when he passed it really changed our family. I became involved in crime and drugs in local areas, I didn’t feel as though I had anything socially acceptable to focus my life on.

“As a contrast to the negativity of my life, I found an interest in growing plants when I was diagnosed with ADHD, a condition that is helped by having hobbies. I loved the aspect of managing an improving life that comes with growing plants.

“I contacted Hopwood Hall College about wanting to learn more and apply my interests and skills in a structured setting. They talked to me about their horticulture course and how the facilities could help direct my skills to something productive.”

This new found interest in horticulture, coupled with his studying on the dietary benefits of a more natural diet, led to a dramatic change in Andrew’s quality of life.

He said: “When I started the horticulture course, the crime stopped and the work that actually mattered to me started.

“Having access to such facilities and knowledge helped focus my mind, which in turn caused a huge change physically.

“I learned how to grow organic foods and find forgeable food sources, leading me to cut out almost all processed foods. I lost loads of weight, my BMI was perfect and I was running and swimming around 15 miles a day – I felt great and I was in as near as perfect physical shape as possible.

“I really believe most of people’s problems in life are diet related. Getting that right really helps your mind and body achieve so much more.”

The new found self-worth led Andrew to want to do more for other people too. 

Andrew added: “I have a job I enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a job. I have since given as much of my time as possible to charity around Rochdale and Oldham.

“I have been building gardens for members of the public in need and teaching them horticulture techniques, I helped the Healey Tea Rooms rebuild their garden, I build sets for Hey Kids drama group and I also work with Incredible Edibles and Petrus doing similar work.

“Right now I am working with a charity for people facing adversity called High Level.

“I’m designing and building a memorial area for one of the charity’s founders, whilst also talking to those who come to the charity about how they too can turn their life around. Offering them an avenue to do something constructive as opposed to crime or drugs feels great.

“The taste of charity and the clean lifestyle learned from horticulture has helped me grow into someone much more comfortable in their skin.”