New position created at horticultural society

Garden and greenhouse enthusiasts may be interested to learn that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has created a new post in its organisation.

The director of horticulture role will be responsible for policy and management of horticultural standards, looking after the plant trials programme, acting as an ambassador and overseeing the various plant committees.

The move comes as part of a restructuring up the societys upper echelons that will see Jill Cherry leave the UKs foremost botanic body.

Acting director general Gordon Seabright wished her well for the future and thanked her for four years of service.

"Jill initiated and has successfully overseen the introduction of master plans, which guide the future development of each of our Gardens, and was responsible for major projects," he said.

These include the Bramall Learning Centre at Harlow Carr, the Glasshouse and Clore Learning Centre at Wisley and the Peter Buckley Learning Centre at Rosemoor.

Mr Seabright added that visitor numbers had risen during Ms Cherrys tenure and that Garden Wisley has recently been awarded a prestigious tourism gong.

In other news, the RHS has advised garden and greenhouse fans to be wary of any late frosts that may be lingering.