Broadcaster Monty Don has shared an emotional tribute to his Gardener's World co-star, David JC Austin. Austin, 67, died earlier this week (July 20) at his Shropshire home after being diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), an incurable neurological condition.
Following his death, Austin's family shared the news on Instagram, prompting an outpouring of grief and support. 'I am sorry to hear this,' wrote Don. '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.'
Tributes from the National Trust and gardeners
The Gardener's World star wasn't alone in paying tribute to Austin; the National Trust also shared a poignant message that read, 'We are saddened to hear of the passing of David JC Austin.' 'Many National Trust gardens and our visitors have benefited from the work of the Austin family and David's continued commitment to roses has brought many people joy over so many years. Our thoughts are with David's family and others close to him.'
It wasn't just celebs and institutions moved by Austin's passing; horticulturists and gardeners also felt the need to share their grief. Gardeners Ross_and_ian commented on the news of Austin's death: 'You didn't know us, but I wanted to say thank you. Through your dedication, vision and relentless pursuit of excellence, you passed something on to me that I never expected: a genuine love of roses. Your work has inspired millions, and for so many of us, there simply is no rose quite like a David Austin rose.'
A family business legacy
Austin, who grew and bred roses, ran the David Austin Roses company, a family business begun by his father, David C. H. Austin. In a statement prepared by the company, they said that Austin led the business for more than 30 years, and credited him with growing the business from a specialist nursery into a globally recognised name among rose lovers.
Meanwhile, Austin's children Richard, James and Olivia also paid tribute to their 'kind and modest' father. 'First and foremost, Dad was a gardener,' they wrote. 'That was at the heart of who he was. 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 faced his illness with the same courage and dignity that he brought to life,' they continued. 'Above all, he was our Dad, and words cannot express how much we will miss him. We couldn't be more proud of him.'
