A Michael Parkinson Exclusive: Talk show icon to receive rose named in his honour

Michael Parkinson to be honoured with a special Rose dedication at BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2006

The UK’s largest hands-on gardening show will once again celebrate the nation’s passion for gardening and beautiful plants. The show is always a horticultural treat with many new plants, this year we are proud to announce the launch of the ‘Parky’ rose in honour of talk show legend, Michael Parkinson.

On Wednesday 14th June Michael Parkinson will be presented with a rose named in his honour by BBC Gardeners’ World Live in association with Roses UK and Harkness Roses. The dramatic ‘Parky’ rose truly personifies the two passions in his life: Yorkshire and cricket. With fully open blooms that are practically pure white, the rose will match Michael’s dominance in his field by creating a dominant impression in any garden landscape.

Adam Pasco, Editor of Gardeners’ World Magazine says: "We’re thrilled to be welcoming Michael to the show this year. Launching a rose named in his honour reflects the high regard he’s held by the British public. He’s a national institution, and soon everyone will be growing ‘Parky’ in their own garden. With dozens of gorgeous gardens, stunning displays and bargain plants around the show I’m sure Michael will return home with inspiring ideas for his own garden.”

Michael Parkinson says: “Mary is the gardener. I am the appreciative onlooker. The rose is a great honour. I look forward to seeing it in our garden standing alongside my Geoffrey Boycott rose. All I need is a daisy named after Dicky Bird and my garden will be paradise.”