Gardener Sasha York has described what Monty Don is really like after meeting the presenter and his wife, Sarah, at a private dinner. Sharing a selfie from their meeting on Instagram, York, who previously appeared on Gardeners' World, opened up about the encounter.
"I had the greatest honour of meeting and sitting next to Monty at a private supper in June," York wrote in the caption. "Monty has given me permission to post this photo. I think this is the best selfie I've ever taken!"
A memorable evening
"He was, as you would imagine, an utter delight. We chatted about gardens, grief and life. I also sat opposite his wife, Sarah, who was also an extremely lovely, kind lady and such an honour to meet and chat to. I was lucky enough to be featured on Gardeners' World in May 2024, and I thanked Monty for his wonderful closing piece."
York added: "It's amazing how things turned out. We very rarely do anything social; we are getting better, but still find it difficult, and we said yes to this invite, having no idea who would be at supper with us!"
Retirement announcement
York's post was shared two days after Monty announced his exit from Gardeners' World. Releasing an official statement, the presenter said: "I have decided that the current series of Gardeners' World is to be my last. I began hosting the programme 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow."
"Throughout that time - and around seven hundred programmes - I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience. That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world, is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived."
Fans react
York's followers were delighted with her sweet post. "Thank you SO much for posting this!! We will miss Monty (here in the USA) but hope to see him in the future….maybe featured on a special program!!" wrote one. "How wonderful … I'm sure he's as lovely and charismatic in person as he is on GW. What a treat to meet & chat with him & his wife (teeny bit envious!)," quipped a second. "How lovely. We will all miss Monty," remarked a third.
Noting that "now is the right time for a change," Monty concluded: "I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues. There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by my side, here at Longmeadow."
