Peter Beales Roses, a stalwart in the horticultural arena renowned for its commitment to preserving old-fashioned, historic, and rare roses, has clinched its 29th gold medal at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
The accolade comes in recognition of the company’s exquisite display commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). Ian Limmer, the head of the nursery and spearhead of the plant breeding program at the Attleborough site, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the charity’s milestone year.
“Aside from the professional achievement, this win holds personal significance for me. My grandfather’s three-decade-long service in the RNLI at Sheringham adds a poignant layer to our participation,” Limmer remarked, reflecting on his familial ties to the cause.
The event marked the unveiling of the ‘With Courage’ rose, a collaborative effort between Peter Beales Roses and the RNLI, paying tribute to the life-saving endeavors of the organization. The ceremony, held during the press day of the prestigious show, witnessed the presence of former Blue Peter luminaries Anthea Turner, Janet Ellis, and Lindsey Russell, emblematic of the enduring rapport between the iconic children’s program and the RNLI.
Celebrity sightings added to the allure of the occasion, with personalities such as Joanna Lumley, Kate Humble, Joanna Scanlon, David Mitchell, Johnny Ball, Amanda Holden, Greg Davies, Joel Dommett, and Caroline Quentin gracing the event with their presence.
Reflecting on the painstaking efforts behind crafting new varieties like ‘With Courage,’ Limmer emphasized the significance of such recognition. “The dedication invested in refining a new rose variety is immense, and we are immensely grateful for the acknowledgment,” he affirmed.
Looking ahead, Peter Beales Roses anticipates further collaboration with the RNLI, fostering a shared journey that resonates with gardeners nationwide, promising the perennial bloom of their latest creation, ‘With Courage,’ for years to come.
