Matthew Biggs, a beloved panellist on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time since 1994, has recorded his final appearance on the programme as he receives palliative care for terminal cancer. The moving edition will air at 3pm on Friday 15 May during Mental Health Awareness Week.
Recorded at The Serge Hill Project—a garden space founded on the belief that working with nature can transform health and wellbeing—the programme features Biggs surrounded by his longtime friends and colleagues. He chose to make this final recording knowing his illness had entered its end stage.
In the episode, Biggs speaks candidly about his diagnosis and treatment, and how living with a terminal illness has affected his mental and physical wellbeing. It is his wish that sharing his story will offer guidance to others facing illness and encourage listeners of all ages.
Mohit Bakaya, Controller of BBC Radio 4, said: “Everyone at Radio 4 is deeply grateful to Matthew for everything he has given to Gardeners’ Question Time over the years. He has been an extraordinary contributor and a true ambassador for Radio 4 in the horticultural world.”
The edition is chaired by Peter Gibbs and Kathy Clugston, with a panel including Pippa Greenwood, Christine Walkden and Anne Swithinbank. Guest appearances come from landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith and his partner, psychiatrist Sue Stuart-Smith. Biggs was joined at the recording by his wife Gill, daughters Chloe and Jessica, and the production team.
