Alan Titchmarsh MBE DL VMH HonFSE
2016 - Today
Alan started his studies at the Hertfordshire College of Agriculture and Horticulture before going on to the RBG Kew for his Diploma in Horticulture, staying at Kew after graduation as a supervisor and staff trainer. Now a broadcaster and author, receiving his MBE in 2000. Among his other awards is the Royal Horticultural Society's Victoria Medal of Honour, the highest award the RHS can bestow.
35 Kewites assembled on 15th June for a lunch at the Coach and Horses Hotel, Kew Green to mark its award of a Kew Guild Medal to Alan Titchmarsh for distinguished work as a horticulturalist. In welcoming Alison and Alan, Guild President Tony Overland mentioned Alan’s career and particularly his work as President of Plant Heritage, Perennial, and a Trustee of Gardens for Schools, and President or patron of approximately 35 charities and organisations.
Alan, in turn, thanked the Guild for the honour and expressed his pleasure in returning to Kew and meeting up with old friends. He recalled his digs on the Mortlake Road in Kew, and five happy years beside Kew Green; how he had met his wife through Barnes Operatic Society, how he valued the Kew Diploma and the fact that he is in touch with plants every day – he will always be a gardener.