Monty Don has paid an emotional tribute to David J.C. Austin, the chairman of David Austin Roses, who has died at the age of 67 after a battle with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare and terminal neurological disorder that triggers brain deterioration. The Gardener's World presenter, 71, took to social media on Monday to remember his friend and colleague.
Monty wrote on Instagram: "I am so sorry to hear this. My regards and condolences to all his family. But what legacy he leaves - millions of exquisite roses that will live on for so many, enriching all our lives."
David J.C. Austin's career and family
David was born in 1958 and joined the Albrighton-based family business, founded by his father David C. H. Austin, in his early thirties. He chaired the company for three decades until his death. He made numerous on-air appearances on Gardener's World and featured regularly at live events such as BBC Gardeners' World Live at the NEC Birmingham and the Chelsea Flower Show.
He is survived by his three children Richard, James and Olivia. The family announced his passing with an emotional statement earlier this week, which read: "First and foremost, Dad was a gardener. That was at the heart of who he was." The statement continued: "He carried our grandfather's vision with humility and an unwavering sense of responsibility, always putting the roses, the family business and its people before himself. He was kind and modest, with a playful spirit, a sense of adventure and a real enjoyment of life."
Further tributes
BBC radio host Zoe Ball, who has presented on-air coverage of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, said: "Sending love and condolences to the Austin family. Heartbreaking news." David Austin Roses confirmed the business would continue under its leadership and work with the next generation. Tributes left on a Facebook post praised his efforts in the floral industry. One read: "Every night, I look at an admire my DA roses, inspecting for more buds and surprise blooms. And tonight, I'll be looking at them much different, thinking of David and his family." Another said: "I will only have your roses in my little garden and give them to friends and family as gifts. May I suggest that next year's rose is named the David J.C. Austin rose in his memory."
