Wendy and Martin Staniforth
2026 - Today
The George Brown Award is a distinctive honour within the Kew Guild. It commemorates George Ernest Brown, whose career at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and whose commitment to communication, diplomacy and public engagement, remind us that horticulture is not only about plants, but also about people - about sharing knowledge, building relationships and inspiring others to value the living world.
That spirit feels especially fitting as we recognise Martin and Wendy. Their contribution has been marked not simply by professional achievement, but by generosity: generosity of knowledge, time, encouragement and service. Through their work, their friendships and their commitment to the wider horticultural community, they have helped strengthen the networks that make our profession so much richer.
For many of us, the Kew Guild represents more than a professional association. It is a living network of people whose careers, friendships and shared experiences are rooted in Kew and extend far beyond it. Martin and Wendy embody that spirit. They remind us that the strength of horticulture lies not only in technical excellence, but in the way we welcome, mentor and connect people across generations.
So today, we thank Martin and Wendy for all they have given: to Kew, to the Guild, and to the many individuals whose journeys have been shaped by their encouragement and example.
Wendy has 40 years experience in commercial plant production and Administrator of ProVar Plant Breeders Rights Royalty Collection Company. Holder of National Diploma in Commercial Production specialising in Hardy Nursery Stock. Kew Diploma Course 28 1990 -1993. Currently a part time lecturer at Merrist Wood College
Martin has 50 years’ experience in amenity & botanic garden management. MHort (RHS), Kew Diploma Couse 19 1981- 1984 Currently Practical Training Manager in the School of Botanical Horticulture at RBG Kew