Gardening writer and broadcaster Peter Seabrook passed away over the weekend at the age of 86. His family announced that the former BBC Gardeners’ World presenter had died of a suspected heart attack.
Mourning the loss of an industry stalwart, who was a regular face at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the RHS said: “We are very sad to hear that one of the greatest champions of horticulture, Peter Seabrook, has died. Peter had the most incredible career in horticulture and exhibited at RHS Chelsea Flower Show for decades and was regularly at RHS events, gardens and flower shows.”
HTA president Boyd Douglas-Davies says: “It was with a heavy heart that I learnt of the passing of Peter Seabrook. He was, without doubt, “Mr Gardening” – the original gardening superhero.
“I was fortunate to meet Peter in the early days of my career in Horticulture. The enthusiasm he shared with me 30+ years ago never diminished. He enthralled and educated the public through TV, radio and the written word for decades.
“His passion for everything garden related was infectious. He engaged with children as easily as he did with their grand-parents. He had time for all and was never slow to share his opinion.
“Many a time I have shared a stage with Peter and been amazed at his unwavering ability to answer any question. His ‘readers letters’ were legendary and hugely entertaining.
“The industry has lost a true champion. A character. A media giant. A knowledge that will be impossible to replace. Above all, we have today lost a friend. Peter RIP.”
Iain Wylie, Garden Centre Association (GCA) chief Eexecutive, says: “We were very shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of Peter Seabrook’s passing last Friday.
“He was a huge supporter of garden centres and an integral member of our industry. Peter was in at the very beginning when our organisation was formed and has supported us throughout. He will be sorely missed.
“Peter played a big part in the early days of the GCA and was an Honorary Member. He attended our conferences and kept very much in touch with all that was going on with our organisation and the industry.
“He visited member centres and was keen to share best practice. He also spoke up for us on many issues on a national level and we were very proud to have him on our side.”
