Proposed by: Mark Line
Seconded by: Ann Clarke
Supported by: Eileen Atkinson, Rachel Fogg, Kathleen Hanglin, Jill Hutton, Sarah Severn, Janice Topham.
I am standing for RHS Council as an RHS Life member who is passionate about gardening and gardens. Gardens bring us joy and support wildlife. Visiting gardens, reading and learning about plants and horticulture, creatively designing our own spaces, overcoming setbacks and then watching our gardens develop and bloom is both a privilege and a huge thrill. I believe that gardens also bring enormous benefits for our physical and mental wellbeing – both of which underpin my personal values for living more sustainably.
If elected, I would bring to the role more than 40 years of knowledge and experience in communications, public engagement and sustainability – criteria highlighted for this year’s election – in the public and voluntary sectors, mainly in health, medical research and the environment. During my career, I have spearheaded high-profile national and international public awareness campaigns, led the communications for an NHS Trust during Covid, masterminded two charity centenaries (different charities), run campaigns to broaden public engagement and community and volunteer participation, and secured policy changes for charities.
I have also been a charity trustee, an elected parish council member, school governor and served other honorary roles, so I recognise the range of responsibilities involved in wider board governance and oversight.
I applaud the efforts of the RHS to widen its appeal, embrace the science of cutting-edge horticulture, enhance the visitor experience and nurture the gardeners of tomorrow. I would be honoured to represent you on the RHS Council and contribute to the ongoing stewardship and development of the RHS.