A heavyweight of the horticultural industry is celebrating winning its 29th gold medal at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Peter Beales Roses, which has specialised in the preservation of old fashioned, historic and rare roses since 1968, won gold for its display honouring the 200th anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Ian Limmer, head of the nursery and plant breeding programme at the Attleborough site, said it was an extreme privilege for the team to be a part of the charity’s landmark year.
“It was an especially personal moment for me, as my own grandfather served in the RNLI for over 30 years in Sheringham, so this felt like a full circle moment to thank him for his service,” he said.
“For us to win our 29th gold medal is a moment that will remain with all of us for the rest of our lives. So much work goes into creating the displays that visitors see at Chelsea.”
The London Road company, bought by Bell’s Horticultural of Lincolnshire in February, partnered with the RNLI for the event and unveiled a newly created ‘With Courage’ rose to celebrate the life-saving work of the charity.
The new rose was officially unveiled during the world-famous show’s press day, with a special photo call featuring former Blue Peter presenters Anthea Turner, Janet Ellis and Lindsey Russell, symbolic of the long-standing relationship between the hit children’s TV show and the RNLI.
And they were not the only stars to rub shoulders with staff, with celebrities such as Joanna Lumley, Kate Humble, Joanna Scanlon, David Mitchell, Johnny Ball, Amanda Holden, Greg Davies, Joel Dommett and Caroline Quentin all stopping by to wonder at the wealth of roses on display.
Mr Limmer added: “Years of work go into refining a new variety such as With Courage, so the recognition for this as well is hugely appreciated.
“We are excited to continue our journey with the RNLI and hope that gardeners across the country enjoy watching our latest rose bloom year after year.”
