By royal appointment, a head gardener for Balmoral

The successful applicant could land themselves a home a stone’s throw from the Royal Family, with the option of a cottage at Balmoral available with the job.

A job advert posted on Balmoral’s website says: “The successful applicant will be expected to supervise the maintenance of all garden areas at Balmoral Castle.

“Applicants should be experienced in all aspects of gardening and be capable of meeting the high standards required at this important property.

“Applicants should be self-motivated, capable of working with minimal supervision and should have good management skills, including personnel management.

“The position offers an attractive remuneration package, including accommodation and other benefits.”

Applications for the post close on 23 September.

The Balmoral gardens on Royal Deeside were started under the supervision of Prince Albert and have been expanded and improved by successive members of the Royal Family.

The estate now boasts vegetable and flower gardens, rose gardens, herbaceous borders and summer beds.

A large kitchen garden added by the Duke of Edinburgh is harvested between August and October, when the royals are in residence.

During royal visits, the successful applicant’s skills are likely to come under close scrutiny from the Prince of Wales, himself a keen gardener.