Sad news regarding Geoff Hamilton
Gary Cooper
I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
a charity event in Wales.
Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
--
Gary Cooper
Gary
Very sad news indeed. Geoff has been there, guiding me through, ever
since my interest in gardening took off (blossomed). I'm not sure why
posting a message here makes me feel better but somehow, sharing the
sadness seems to help.
If anyone connected with Geoff, family or friends, should come across
this message, please take heart from the pleasure, knowledge and quiet
enthusiasm that he brought to all of us.
Fridays will never be the same again - I will remember him with great
fondness - someone that I never knew personally but somehow seemed like
an old friend.
Bless you Geoff - we'll miss you.
--
Gary
Jim A
In article <839182...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>, Gary Cooper
<Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes
I'll second that.
Friday evening won't seem the same from now on
--
Jim A.
Simon Lewin
I'll agree with all of that, Gary.
A great loss.
Keith Dancey
In article 839182...@wordshop.demon.co.uk, Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes:
>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales.
>
>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>
>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
I have not, in recent times, ever felt so desperately sad about the death of
a person in the public eye as I did upon hearing about Geoff Hamilton's
untimely demise yesterday.
I went out and watered my tubs with such a feeling of depression I could have
cried. It's such a strange thing: a craggy old chap with his little pot belly
and bent legs seemed to me, to represent everything that was good about gardening.
He was unpretentious, decent, good-humoured, and above all loved nature.
And he had a cat named Denis. We can guess why he was called that:-)
How could such a man inveigle his way into the affections of so many? I was
really taken aback at how deeply I felt.
I am quite pessimistic about the tenor of television gardening without him. He
was always full of ideas, making things, testing methods - and passing on his
experiences for the benefit of others. I don't know that he was the best plantsman
that was around, but he tried so dammned hard to make practical suggestions
about all sorts of problems... And he determined to work with nature - and
encourage others to do the same - rather than work against it. There hasn't
been another popular horticulturalist who has done more for the "greening" of
gardening over the last ten years.
It is just so so sad. I'm really upset.
To die on a charity cycle ride just about sums up the man. We can ill-aford to
lose people of such calibre. What a terrible loss.
keith Dancey
Earth Observation Data Group
Jon Rouse
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales.
>
>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>
>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
Wow, heavens going to be some place - with him and Clay. God won't know
what's hit the place!
--
Usenet comments do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
Martin F Finlan
In article <4u4clh$1b...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>, Keith Dancey (k...@inf.rl.ac.uk) writes:
>
>In article 839182...@wordshop.demon.co.uk, Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes:
>>a charity event in Wales.
>>
>>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>>
>>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
>
>
>a person in the public eye as I did upon hearing about Geoff Hamilton's
>untimely demise yesterday.
>
>I went out and watered my tubs with such a feeling of depression I could have
>cried. It's such a strange thing: a craggy old chap with his little pot belly
>and bent legs seemed to me, to represent everything that was good about gardening.
>He was unpretentious, decent, good-humoured, and above all loved nature.
>
>And he had a cat named Denis. We can guess why he was called that:-)
>
>How could such a man inveigle his way into the affections of so many? I was
>really taken aback at how deeply I felt.
>
>I am quite pessimistic about the tenor of television gardening without him. He
>was always full of ideas, making things, testing methods - and passing on his
>experiences for the benefit of others. I don't know that he was the best plantsman
>that was around, but he tried so dammned hard to make practical suggestions
>about all sorts of problems... And he determined to work with nature - and
>encourage others to do the same - rather than work against it. There hasn't
>been another popular horticulturalist who has done more for the "greening" of
>gardening over the last ten years.
>
>It is just so so sad. I'm really upset.
>
>To die on a charity cycle ride just about sums up the man. We can ill-aford to
>lose people of such calibre. What a terrible loss.
>
>
>
>keith Dancey
>Earth Observation Data Group
>
>
I agree entirely. It really shook us when we saw the news. I
didn't really feel like posting anything yesterday after hearing
that. I've watched Geoff since his very early days on Gardeners'
World when he was with Clay Jones and Roy Lancaster. The latest GW
magazine only a few days ago included Geoff saying how sad he was
about Clay Jones and that he was going to plant a tree in his
memory. It's so hard to believe - one of those people who felt
more like a friend than a presenter. He'll be dreadfully missed.
Corinne
Menno Nykerk
On Sun, 04 Aug 96 18:20:16 GMT, Gary Cooper
<Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote from far away:
>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales.
>
>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
Be assured that it is a loss that will be felt by many abroad as well.
Menno Nykerk
.............................................................................
Internet is like a sewer and so is life. What you get out of it
depends on what you put in.
Adapted from Tom Lehrer.
.............................................................................
Nevertheless, visit my Garden at
http://www.euronet.nl/users/mnykerk/index.htm
.............................................................................
Julie Yeaman
I was absolutely devasted to hear the news of Geoff Hamiliton's death.
I am a younger viewer (25) of Gardeners World and have watched every
week it was shown for the last four or five years.
Geoff inspired me to try new things, the minute the programme finished I
wanted to be straight out into the garden without delay :)
His death has affected as much as if it had been any member of my
family. I would have loved to meet him and I wish I had made more of an
effort to visit the recent show at Birmingham - a show I know he was
looking forward to.
There will be a black hole left on Friday nights, I feel angry that I
missed the last few shows because of the time changes due to the
Olympics.
I hope that the BBC do a tribute for him.
I wonder what will happen to the wonderful gardens at Barnsdale that he
worked so hard to maintain.
We will all him him terribly and my thoughts go out to his family.
--
Julie Yeaman
Lyn Wilkins
Julie Yeaman wrote:
>
> I was absolutely devasted to hear the news of Geoff Hamiliton's death.
>
> I am a younger viewer (25) of Gardeners World and have watched every
> week it was shown for the last four or five years.
his ‘down to earth’ approach, to become a gardener. I watched
Gardeners World avidly every week, bought his books, tried all his tips,
and now have a garden that would certainly not have been so attractive
or successful without his advice. Though it might not be the type of
garden that the David Steven’s of the world would like, I feel it would
be the type that Geoff would have liked, because it provides so much
pleasure for me, and that was always his point. It should be fun and
so long as you like it who cares about what anyone else thinks.
I shall certainly miss him, I don’t think I have been so upset at the
death of somebody who I didn’t know personally. Maybe that’s why,
because of his approach to gardening and the way he presented Gardeners
World, I did feel I knew him.
Lyn
Mike
> There will be a black hole left on Friday nights, I feel angry that I
> missed the last few shows because of the time changes due to the
> Olympics.
You didn't miss him, he wasn't on. Alan Titchmarsh did the programmes instead.
Because he hadn't done it for two weeks, when I heard that he had died I
initially thought he had been in hospital. When I found out how he died my
first reaction was "what a bloody stupid thing to do". Funny how things can
take you. I think they are going to have trouble finding a replacement
although I suspect there may have been plans for him to do less given his
condition. Whatever it will be it can't be the same. I just remember Percy
Thrower and I know how long it seemed to take before the programme settled
down again.
Mike.
Trevor Ralph
In article <hi8g5DAq...@sidney.demon.co.uk>, Ga...@sidney.demon.co.uk
says...
>
>Very sad news indeed. Geoff has been there, guiding me through, ever
>since my interest in gardening took off (blossomed). I'm not sure why
>posting a message here makes me feel better but somehow, sharing the
>sadness seems to help.
>
>If anyone connected with Geoff, family or friends, should come across
>this message, please take heart from the pleasure, knowledge and quiet
>enthusiasm that he brought to all of us.
Hear Hear.
My thoughts exactly
Andrew Bowley
How very very sad.
I recently moved to a house with a big garden - without Geoffs advice
and encouragement via GW I don't think I would have gained so much
pleasure over the last few months.
His reference to 'Barnsdale' often raised a few smiles in our house. I
will definitely visit sometime.
I have a suggestion for the use of some of this 'lottery fund' - a
memorial of some kind in memory of this generous, gentle gentleman.
Fridays will never quite be the same.
In article <2...@corimar.win-uk.net>, Martin F Finlan
<fin...@corimar.win-uk.net> writes
>
>In article <4u4clh$1b...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>, Keith Dancey (k...@inf.rl.ac.uk)
>writes:
>>
>>In article 839182...@wordshop.demon.co.uk, Gary Cooper
><Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes:
>>>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>>>a charity event in Wales.
>>>
>>>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>>>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>>>
--
Andrew Bowley
Will Stevenson
many of us have been surprised at the loss we have
felt on hearing of Geoff Hamilton death
so many famous people die, so many that i respect, yet
this loss has touched me deeply - truly he was
one of the finest broadcasters, one who so
effortlessly transferred his enthusiasm and
care to millions
i certainly second all that has been posted
cheers
will
Gary Cooper
> You didn't miss him, he wasn't on. Alan Titchmarsh did the programmes instead.
> Because he hadn't done it for two weeks, when I heard that he had died I
> initially thought he had been in hospital. When I found out how he died my
> first reaction was "what a bloody stupid thing to do". Funny how things can
> take you. I think they are going to have trouble finding a replacement
> although I suspect there may have been plans for him to do less given his
> condition. Whatever it will be it can't be the same. I just remember Percy
> Thrower and I know how long it seemed to take before the programme settled
> down again.
We must be of an age, Mike - I recall Percy Thrower, too - and in
that absurdly conservative way one does, regarded Geoff Hamilton
as a bit of a newcomer - though a much-liked and revered one.
For heaven's sake, Gardener's Question Time has never seemed
the same to me without the inclusion of "Professor Alan Gemmel
of Ashton-Under-Lyme". And Fred Load's book of tips is a bible
to me...
But where *now*? If they give Gardener's World to the oily
Mr. Titchmarsh, I'll defect forever. He's altogether too
glib, too smarmy and too polished.
Geoff Hamilton was unique. I have no idea *how* the BBC will
cope with his loss. I'm still not sure how I will.. I keep
worrying about his garden, his cat.... Am I an idiot, or
are others out there feeling the same?
--
Gary Cooper
Jenny Woods
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>In article <839353...@myth.demon.co.uk> ze...@myth.demon.co.uk "Mike" writes:
>Geoff Hamilton was unique. I have no idea *how* the BBC will
>cope with his loss. I'm still not sure how I will.. I keep
>worrying about his garden, his cat.... Am I an idiot, or
>are others out there feeling the same?
>
>--
>Gary Cooper
he took cuttings from were bought as romantic presents for her!..I expect
they were a bit ragged by the time she got them.
I've only been gardening a few years and Geoff taught me a lot
Friday evenings will definitely not be the same...
Jenny Woods
Julie Yeaman
>But where *now*? If they give Gardener's World to the oily
>Mr. Titchmarsh, I'll defect forever. He's altogether too
>glib, too smarmy and too polished.
I agree entirely, if Alan Titchmarsh takes over, I certainly won't be
watching GW any more.
>
>Geoff Hamilton was unique. I have no idea *how* the BBC will
>cope with his loss. I'm still not sure how I will..
I agree
>I keep
>worrying about his garden, his cat.... Am I an idiot, or
>are others out there feeling the same?
>
I keep thinking about his garden, his conservatory that he only got
recently, his rockery - the Labernum (sp!) arch he created and was
looking foward to seeing when it was mature, the bulbs he planted for
next year etc etc.
--
Julie Yeaman
Chris Boulby
In article <839381...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>, Gary Cooper
<Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes
instead.
>> Because he hadn't done it for two weeks, when I heard that he had
died I
>> initially thought he had been in hospital. When I found out how he
died my
>> first reaction was "what a bloody stupid thing to do". Funny how
things can
>> take you.
>
>that absurdly conservative way one does, regarded Geoff Hamilton
>as a bit of a newcomer - though a much-liked and revered one.
>
>Mr. Titchmarsh, I'll defect forever. He's altogether too
>glib, too smarmy and too polished.
>
>worrying about his garden, his cat.... Am I an idiot, or
>are others out there feeling the same?
>
I have seen so much of Barnsdale that I hope they preserve it as a
special place where all the bits he did are kept together and nourished
as he would have liked. I read one obituary about him which said he
never seemed as relaxed when walking around other peoples gardens as he
did when talking about his own, and I agree. So what I hope more than
anything is that they keep it just the way it is, or at least not
changing any of it. That way his spirit will be there for all of us to
feel. I know it will be creeping around every corner of that garden
checking on the bits and pieces.
I remember going to York Gate Garden in Adel, North Leeds the year after
the death of its owner (cannot remember her name). They had kept the
chaise lounge she used to sit on exactly where it had always been, and
despite it being crowded out with visitors (it always is on that open
day) you just felt her presence all over the place.
If they do something like that at Barnsdale then it will be the living
tribute Geoff would have liked to leave behind. I hope one day I shall
be able to visit there, I'd love to look around at how all those
projects are progressing.
God how I'm going to miss him! I have a letter he wrote me just a
couple of weeks ago. It now means so much to have it, and I had only
written a note about diascias because I knew how much he liked them.
--
Chris Boulby
beets
On 5-08-96 10:50, message <4u4clh$1b...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>, Keith Dancey
<k...@inf.rl.ac.uk> wrote:
>"I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales."
>
This must be one of the saddest days in our (gardening-)lives. After a heavy
thunderstorm last night, all the flowers were hanging down this morning and
stayed that way all day long. Now we know why. It is their way of paying
respect to the man who made their life in our garden possible. His enthusiasm,
knowledge, love of nature and his own warm nature tied us to his program every
friday-evening, together with thousands of other Dutch gardeners. Through his
books as well we became more and more interested in gardening over the years
and it now takes up most of our time.
Geoff Hamilton is not dead; he will die if we do not remember him any longer.
But nature lives on - so will Geoff .....................!
Roger Beets
Holland
Dave Poole
>We must be of an age, Mike - I recall Percy Thrower, too - and in
>that absurdly conservative way one does, regarded Geoff Hamilton
>as a bit of a newcomer - though a much-liked and revered one.
>
>For heaven's sake, Gardener's Question Time has never seemed
>the same to me without the inclusion of "Professor Alan Gemmel
>of Ashton-Under-Lyme". And Fred Load's book of tips is a bible
>to me...
>
>But where *now*? If they give Gardener's World to the oily
>Mr. Titchmarsh, I'll defect forever. He's altogether too
>glib, too smarmy and too polished.
And too damned star-struck!
>
>Geoff Hamilton was unique. I have no idea *how* the BBC will
>cope with his loss. I'm still not sure how I will.. I keep
>worrying about his garden, his cat.... Am I an idiot, or
>are others out there feeling the same?
I'll second everything that has been said about Geoff. I met him
several times back in the early '80's and in those days there was
still a touch of uncertainty as to who was going to fully adopt Percy
Thrower's crown. I felt uncertain about him too, especially since I
knew Percy and feeling more than a touch of loyalty, was appalled at
the treatment meted out to him by the Beeb.
Nevertheless, I quickly realised that in Geoff, Gardener's World had a
safe and secure future. He was a charming man with a bright and
enquiring mind ever eager to learn more and even more eager to impart
his knowledge to others. I noted then that he would often attribute
his knowledge to others saying " You know, such and such told/showed
me... It certainly worked for me why don't you give it a go?"
Most other TV gardeners whose names I will not mention would never
have been so unassuming.
I have to say that Geoff's central role in GW saved it from an
untimely demise for whilst others were temporarily at the helm, the
show was a shambles and barely worth watching. Dear old Arthur Billit
fumed at the way Percy Thrower was treated, but told me some years
later that he was delighted that Geoff had got the job because there
was no-one else so worthy a successor.
I can't think of anyone amongst the current crop of gardening celebs.
who could do the job even half as well. Let's just hope there's a
suitable 'newbie' somewhere out there. I think that might prove more
acceptable.
David Poole
ils...@mail.zynet.co.uk
Jon Rouse
ils...@mail.zynet.co.uk (Dave Poole) wrote:
>I can't think of anyone amongst the current crop of gardening celebs.
>who could do the job even half as well. Let's just hope there's a
>suitable 'newbie' somewhere out there. I think that might prove more
>acceptable.
I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
that amazing red-haired woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind.
Julie Yeaman
>>I can't think of anyone amongst the current crop of gardening celebs.
>>who could do the job even half as well. Let's just hope there's a
>>suitable 'newbie' somewhere out there. I think that might prove more
>>acceptable.
>
>I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
>that amazing red-haired woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind.
>
NO, No, no..........
--
Julie Yeaman
SYNTAX? Why not--they tax everything else!
Dick, England
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales.
>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
>Gary Cooper
But above all things, that was a good way to live a life!
You know, try as I might, I can't think of anyone else who displayed
such intrinsic honesty of manner. My memories of him are a delight.
With profound respect,
Dick, Hertfordshire.
Mike
From what has been said on the news Geoff had been filming a series to be
broadcast over the winter/spring period so lets hope that still goes ahead.
Perhaps the BBC will take this opportunity to have a good look at the
direction GW had been going. Geoff was just about the only "real" gardener
(or at least the only person whe did real gardening) so let us hope that they
don't replace him with someone that has a PhD in long latin names. Personally
I don't mind Alan Titchmarsh but I do get the feeling that it is mutating
into a lifestyle programme with no real gardens. Channel 4 similarly.
Mike
Dunkley
I can't get over the fact that he has gone.
From time to time he would annoy me with the things he would do such as
not let people in the gardens he visited spesk for themselves. but you can
even get fed up with the things a dearly loved family member can do from
time to time and i have seen criticisms of him her in this news group.
But overall his enthusiasm for gardening and love of plants transcended
everything and his loss feels like a death in the family for me.
Can Friday's be quite the same?
Jon Harris
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
>a charity event in Wales.
>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
No apologies needed, thanks for letting us know, i hadn't heard.
I fully agree with your words of personal loss. I'm gutted. He came over as a
guy who always looked at the bright side and had a genuine love of the garden
and gardening. He was one of the least pompous people on television, and made
the programme so watchable. Whining Titchmarsh just has me reaching for the off
button...
I know he was ill a while ago, and wasn't on the GW for a while, was it related
do you know?
What a sad loss.
Jon.
George
On Thu, 8 Aug 1996 10:30:03 +0100, Julie Yeaman <jul...@demon.net>
wrote:
>
>>>I can't think of anyone amongst the current crop of gardening celebs.
>>>who could do the job even half as well. Let's just hope there's a
>>>suitable 'newbie' somewhere out there. I think that might prove more
>>>acceptable.
>>
>>I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
>>that amazing red-haired woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind.
>>
>NO, No, no..........
And definitely NO!
I must say how much I appreciate the tribute to Geoff contained in
this thread. He's probably giving a wry grin of embarrassment right
now :-)
I concur and identify with all that has been said. My wife and I will
miss him greatly.
George
Gary Cooper
In article <4uhih2$4...@postman.jet.uk> j...@jet.uk "Jerry Goff" writes:
>
> YES, Yes. yes............women have "green fingers" too, especially my partner.
Of course they have - but rather than the abrasaive Ms. Klein,
why not Anna Pavord? She had one, excellent IMHO, TV series
and has been ignored since.
--
Gary Cooper
Jerry Goff
In article <NUodETAb...@demon.net>, Julie Yeaman <jul...@demon.net> writes:
|>
|> >>I can't think of anyone amongst the current crop of gardening celebs.
|> >>who could do the job even half as well. Let's just hope there's a
|> >>suitable 'newbie' somewhere out there. I think that might prove more
|> >>acceptable.
|> >
|> >I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
|> >that amazing red-haired woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind.
|> >
|> NO, No, no..........
|> Julie Yeaman
YES, Yes. yes............women have "green fingers" too, especially my partner.
Jerry Goff
===============================================================================
The above article is the personal view of the poster and should not be
considered as an official comment from the JET Joint Undertaking
===============================================================================
A.L. van Wijk
My wife, who is very enthousiastic with gaderning, last here very favorit
'garderning guide' well knowing as Geoff HAMILTON
She heard the bad at last on friday evening, when the program
of Gardner's World was broadcasted.
She feels very sad about the lost of the real gardners big friend.
We are living in the netherlands, and didn't get all the news about
the sudden detah of Mr. Hamilton.
Could anyone of this newsgroup tell us something more about it?.
Bert van Wijk
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Aan 5-08-96 23:32, in bericht <2...@corimar.win-uk.net>, Martin F Finlan
<fin...@corimar.win-uk.net> schreef:
>
> In article <4u4clh$1b...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>, Keith Dancey (k...@inf.rl.ac.uk)
> writes:
> >
> >In article 839182...@wordshop.demon.co.uk, Gary Cooper
> <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> writes:
> >>I've just heard that Geoff Hamilton died today, during
> >>a charity event in Wales.
> >>
> >>Probably in common with most of the readers of this NG
> >>I feel a sense of almost personal loss.
> >>
> >>With apologies for being the bearer of such sad news,
> >
> >
Richard M Rogers
> >>>who could do the job even half as well.
Nor me. But according to Saturday's Daily Telegraph, Geoff was going to hand
over to Alan Tichmarsh next Easter in any case - not to retire, but to take
on other projects instead! So my guess is that the Titchmarsh era will just
be brought forward a bit, perhaps with others chipping in in the meantime.
Richard
Julie Yeaman
>
>|> >I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
>|> >that amazing red-haired woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind.
>|> >
>|> NO, No, no..........
>|> --
>|> Julie Yeaman
>
>YES, Yes. yes............women have "green fingers" too, especially my partner.
Of course they do, I happen to be one myself ;) However, I have no
desire to watch her on GW.
B A Cragg
Julie Yeaman (jul...@demon.net) wrote:
: >
: >|> >I quite like that over exuberant character who hosts garden party - and
: >|> >
: >|> NO, No, no..........
: >|> --
: >|> Julie Yeaman
: >
: >YES, Yes. yes............women have "green fingers" too, especially my partner.
:
: Of course they do, I happen to be one myself ;) However, I have no
: desire to watch her on GW.
: --
What about Gay Search? (and no that isn't an invitation to go
investigating around Hampstead Heath!)
BAZZA
Lyn Wilkins
>
> What about Gay Search? (and no that isn't an invitation to go
> investigating around Hampstead Heath!)
>
> BAZZA
I'll second that. The book written by her and Geoff Hamilton, "New
Gardens" (or something like that) and the TV series that went with it
were very good.
LYN
Alessio
In article <gzqosEAl...@coniston.demon.co.uk>, on uk.rec.gardening,
Chris Boulby <ch...@coniston.demon.co.uk> wrote;
> They did go ahead after his widow agreed and showed the
>programme produced just four days before, with an added intro by Alan
>Titchmarch. Next week there is to be a tribute to him.
I believe it was actually 2 days before he died.
I will miss him terribly, i will miss his guiding me on what to get
at certain times of the year, what seeds to keep and what to bin,
how to make beautiful arches and fountains.
--
Alessio Tiramani Alessio @ valdena.demon.co.uk
London, England http://www.valdena.demon.co.uk
Keith Dancey
In article 2...@fsa.bris.ac.uk, gl...@mail.bris.ac.uk (B A Cragg) writes:
>
>What about Gay Search? (and no that isn't an invitation to go
>investigating around Hampstead Heath!)
>
(Best name on the telly!-)
Gay was the first person to come to my mind as possible replacement for Geoff's
gentle humility. Anna Pavord would also be very good - she has a rhythm about
her...
But I expect it's quite hard work and whether they could withstand the pressure,
I simply have no means of knowing. There is also the question of the facilities
that need to be supplied...
The problem is that Geoff was special. An impossible act to follow, I fear. We
may have to wait for a person to mature and flower into the role...
You know, even ol' Bob Flowerdrop might surprise us all - a bit too veggie and
spare tire mountain at the mo' - but he's full of ideas and handy with it.
Alan Titchmarsh was better before showbiz.
No King's Heath, Gardens Without Frontiers, Barnsdale or Garden Club....:-( What
a crisis!
(Any cable company running repeats?)
Keith Dancey
Earth Observation Data Group
Andy Mabbett
I'm surprised nobody's mentioned Stefan Buzwhatsisname.
(subject changed out of respect to GH)
BTW< I won't be reading news for 2 weeks, have fun!
--
-----------------------------------------------------------------
| Andy Mabbett, Training Services Division, |
| Birmingham City Council - Economic Development |
| EMail: andy...@bcceddts.demon.co.uk |
| Phone: (+) 44 121 235 3087 Fax: (+) 44 121 235 1325 |
| Post: PO Box 2470 Birmingham B1 2NF England |
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-----------------------------------------------------------------
Jenny Woods
k...@inf.rl.ac.uk (Keith Dancey) wrote:
>Gay was the first person to come to my mind as possible replacement for Geoff's
>gentle humility. Anna Pavord would also be very good - she has a rhythm about
>her...
>
>But I expect it's quite hard work and whether they could withstand the pressure,
>I simply have no means of knowing. There is also the question of the facilities
>that need to be supplied...
>
>The problem is that Geoff was special. An impossible act to follow, I fear. We
>may have to wait for a person to mature and flower into the role...
>
>You know, even ol' Bob Flowerdrop might surprise us all - a bit too veggie and
>spare tire mountain at the mo' - but he's full of ideas and handy with it.
>
>
>Alan Titchmarsh was better before showbiz.
>
>No King's Heath, Gardens Without Frontiers, Barnsdale or Garden Club....:-( What
>a crisis!
>
>(Any cable company running repeats?)
>
>
>Keith Dancey
>Earth Observation Data Group
>
>
back before my gardening interest started)
I see Rosemary Verey has a new series starting at the end of September.
Probably a good show for plants, but I wonder what she's like in the
flesh? I have one of her books which has photos to drool over, but the
text is a bit school marm-ish.
Jenny Woods
Gary Cooper
In article <4uq4fg$1c...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>
k...@inf.rl.ac.uk "Keith Dancey" writes:
>
> Gay was the first person to come to my mind as possible replacement for Geoff's
> gentle humility. Anna Pavord would also be very good - she has a rhythm about
> her...
>
> But I expect it's quite hard work and whether they could withstand the pressure,> I simply have no means of knowing. There is also the question of the facilities> that need to be supplied...
Blimey! Steady-on, Keith, are you suggesting the stronger sex isn't
up to the pressure? :)
>
> The problem is that Geoff was special. An impossible act to follow, I fear. We> may have to wait for a person to mature and flower into the role...
Sadly, yes... Which means that they will really have to make a
major change of direction.
>
> You know, even ol' Bob Flowerdrop might surprise us all - a bit too veggie and
> spare tire mountain at the mo' - but he's full of ideas and handy with it.
>
I'm allergic to him.
>
> Alan Titchmarsh was better before showbiz.
Even *more* allergic to *him* :)
>
> No King's Heath, Gardens Without Frontiers, Barnsdale or Garden Club....:-(
> What
> a crisis!
>
> (Any cable company running repeats?)
Funnily enough, U.K. Gold (which would have the rights to
the BBC's gardening programmes) doesn't seem to show
any at all and I can't say that I've noticed Discovery
with any either.
--
Gary Cooper
Gary Cooper
In article <5UOZx+Aj...@bcceddts.demon.co.uk>
andy...@bcceddts.demon.co.uk "Andy Mabbett" writes:
>
> I'm surprised nobody's mentioned Stefan Buzwhatsisname.
>
> (subject changed out of respect to GH)
Ah, thanks for changing the subject. I kept meaning to
start a new thread for the same reasons and also kept
forgetting to do it.
Ummm Stefan Bucksacki.. well.. he fell out with the BBC
in a big way over Gardeners' Question Time, so I doubt he'd
be high on the list. Also, while I recognise that he
is a genuine authority and would personally find him a
reasonable choice, I suspect that he doesn't have Geoff
Hamilton's "common touch".
In recent years the BBC have made gardening into a huge
money-spinner via their magazine and the Gardener's
World Live show. They are also firmly devoted to the
mass market these days, so I think they'll go for
somone palatable to Mr. and Ms. Average. They mustn't
be dour, or too technical, they need to be "that nice
chap next door - he knows all about gardening" And that,
of course, was Geoff Hamilton.
I really do have the nasty feeling that they'll see
Titchmarsh as a logical replacement.
--
Gary Cooper
Gary Cooper
> Who is Anna Pavord, she must have been before my time (i.e. about 2 yrs
> back before my gardening interest started)
I can't recall which one, but she's gardening correspondent
for one of the national newspapers and had a series of her own
on Channel 4 a few years ago. I found she exuded a real *love*
of the subject and she has a good (if rather gentle) TV style.
Other than the fact that, I suspect, Channel 4 places novelty
above quality, I can't imagine why they've neglected her since.
>
> I see Rosemary Verey has a new series starting at the end of September.
> Probably a good show for plants, but I wonder what she's like in the
> flesh? I have one of her books which has photos to drool over, but the
> text is a bit school marm-ish.
Hmmm.. interesting news. I'll look forward to that. Come
September, with autumn looming, I'll look forward to anything :(
--
Gary Cooper
Martin F Finlan
In article <3...@corimar.win-uk.net>, Martin F Finlan (fin...@corimar.win-uk.net) writes:
>
>In article <839957...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>, Gary Cooper (Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk) writes:
>>In article <4uq4fg$1c...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>
>> k...@inf.rl.ac.uk "Keith Dancey" writes:
>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Alan Titchmarsh was better before showbiz.
>>
>>Even *more* allergic to *him* :)
>>
>>>
>>> No King's Heath, Gardens Without Frontiers, Barnsdale or Garden Club....:-(
>>> What
>>> a crisis!
>>>
>>> (Any cable company running repeats?)
>>
>>Funnily enough, U.K. Gold (which would have the rights to
>>the BBC's gardening programmes) doesn't seem to show
>>any at all and I can't say that I've noticed Discovery
>>with any either.
>>
>>--
>>Gary Cooper
>>
>
>me *dreadfully*, at the Chelsea flower shows, alliterating in all
>directions. But, having read his column in GW magazine for
>quite a long time now, with his down to earth views on many
>gardening topics I've come to the conclusion that he's a good lad
>really (and he *is* from Yorkshire - ducks hurriedly!). I think
>that Alan did a very good job when standing in for Geoff last year.
>When he's being his natural self he comes over much better - I
>think that sometimes he simply tries too hard to be amusing. How
>much of this is down to producer's instructions I wouldn't like to
>say. Certainly, those who remember GW a few years ago when it had
>the pastel introduction with laid back whistling music will recall
>how much 'pseudy' producers can influence a program - back then
>poor old Geoff was lucky if he was on air for 5 mins! We all know
>that no-one can replace Geoff and that GW will never be quite the
>same but if Alan is going to be the one to host it in future then
>I think that he deserves a fair trial.
>
>Corinne
>
>
>
PS - I would *love* to see Roy Lancaster back on air again, perhaps
as a regular guest on GW once more. I miss him since Gardening
Club had the plug pulled by Channel 4 (allegedly!). His
enthusiasm as a plantsman equalled Geoff's in his practical
gardening projects - I always think of Roy as the David
Attenborough of the gardening world.
Corinne
Martin F Finlan
In article <839957...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>, Gary Cooper (Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk) writes:
>In article <4uq4fg$1c...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>
> k...@inf.rl.ac.uk "Keith Dancey" writes:
>
>>
>> gentle humility. Anna Pavord would also be very good - she has a rhythm about
>> her...
>>
>> But I expect it's quite hard work and whether they could withstand the pressure,> I simply have no means of knowing. There is also the question of the facilities> that need to be supplied...
>
>
>Blimey! Steady-on, Keith, are you suggesting the stronger sex isn't
>up to the pressure? :)
>
>>
>> The problem is that Geoff was special. An impossible act to follow, I fear. We> may have to wait for a person to mature and flower into the role...
>
>Sadly, yes... Which means that they will really have to make a
>major change of direction.
>
>>
>> You know, even ol' Bob Flowerdrop might surprise us all - a bit too veggie and
>> spare tire mountain at the mo' - but he's full of ideas and handy with it.
>>
>
>I'm allergic to him.
>
>>
Gary Cooper
In article <839958...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>
coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk "Gary Cooper" writes:
> Ummm Stefan Bucksacki.. well.. he fell out with the BBC
^^^^^^^^^
Arrrgh! Even when I go and look it up I've forgotten
it by the time I've wandered back to my computer!
It's Buczacki.
--
Gary Cooper
Martin Richardson
In article <4uq4fg$1c...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>, Keith Dancey
<k...@inf.rl.ac.uk> writes
>
>In article 2...@fsa.bris.ac.uk, gl...@mail.bris.ac.uk (B A Cragg) writes:
>>
>>What about Gay Search? (and no that isn't an invitation to go
>>investigating around Hampstead Heath!)
>>
>
>
>(Best name on the telly!-)
>
>
and Bob Flowerdew. I bet their real names are Janet Smith and John
Roberts.
Martin Richardson mar...@thequiff.demon.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Welcome to the Quiff (~
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Why walk in the glens when you can walk on the beinns.
Gareth Jones
>What
>a crisis!
>
>(Any cable company running repeats?)
UK living has loads of gardening progs. I think even Mr Smiths Veg
garden is on which has to be donkeys years old.
--
__________________________________________
<Gareth Jones> Gar...@swansea.demon.co.uk
gl.j...@sihe.ac.uk
"Reality sucks - go watch a Star Trek"
Steven Burley
Gary Cooper (Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk) wrote:
: In article <839958...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>
: coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk "Gary Cooper" writes:
Does anybody remember what happened to Geoffrey Smith? The double act
between him and Stefan Buczacki used to be one of the great TV joys of
the early '80s. And he was on GQT for years.
--
Stephen Burley, UMIST.
ymu...@nessie.mcc.ac.uk
Jim A
>
>In article <839957...@wordshop.demon.co.uk>, Gary Cooper
>(Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk) writes:
>>In article <4uq4fg$1c...@newton.cc.rl.ac.uk>
>> k...@inf.rl.ac.uk "Keith Dancey" writes:
>>
>>>
>>> Gay was the first person to come to my mind as possible replacement for
>Geoff's
>>> gentle humility. Anna Pavord would also be very good - she has a rhythm
>about
>>> her...
>>>
>>> But I expect it's quite hard work and whether they could withstand the
>pressure,> I simply have no means of knowing. There is also the question of the
>facilities> that need to be supplied...
>>
>>
>>Blimey! Steady-on, Keith, are you suggesting the stronger sex isn't
>>up to the pressure? :)
>>
>>>
>>> The problem is that Geoff was special. An impossible act to follow, I fear.
>We> may have to wait for a person to mature and flower into the role...
>>
>>Sadly, yes... Which means that they will really have to make a
>>major change of direction.
>>
>>>
>>> You know, even ol' Bob Flowerdrop might surprise us all - a bit too veggie
>and
>>> spare tire mountain at the mo' - but he's full of ideas and handy with it.
>>>
>>
>>I'm allergic to him.
>>
>>>
>>> Alan Titchmarsh was better before showbiz.
>>
>>Even *more* allergic to *him* :)
>>
>>>
>>> What
>>> a crisis!
>>>
>>> (Any cable company running repeats?)
>>
>>the BBC's gardening programmes) doesn't seem to show
>>any at all and I can't say that I've noticed Discovery
>>with any either.
>>
>>--
>>Gary Cooper
>>
>
>I feel I have to come to Alan's defence here. He used to irritate
>me *dreadfully*, at the Chelsea flower shows, alliterating in all
>directions. But, having read his column in GW magazine for
>quite a long time now, with his down to earth views on many
>gardening topics I've come to the conclusion that he's a good lad
>really (and he *is* from Yorkshire - ducks hurriedly!). I think
>that Alan did a very good job when standing in for Geoff last year.
>When he's being his natural self he comes over much better - I
>think that sometimes he simply tries too hard to be amusing. How
>much of this is down to producer's instructions I wouldn't like to
>say.
[
I think you have identified the main problem. There is a lot of pressure
on BBC presenters these days to be more lightweight and appealing to the
masses. Part of the Birt directive I suppose, though its been happening
for a long time. Look what happened to Tomorrows World, it was quite
watchable originally but its utter crap these days. The presenters
haven't a clue about what they're supposed to be talking about.
]
> Certainly, those who remember GW a few years ago when it had
>the pastel introduction with laid back whistling music will recall
>how much 'pseudy' producers can influence a program - back then
>poor old Geoff was lucky if he was on air for 5 mins! We all know
>that no-one can replace Geoff and that GW will never be quite the
>same but if Alan is going to be the one to host it in future then
>I think that he deserves a fair trial.
>
>Corinne
I think Alan Titchmarsh is potentially the best available, if he adopts
some of Geoff's approach. He doesn't have to try to be the same person,
and he seems to be the smartest of the current lineup. Let's hope that
the producers can appreciate what it is that so many people watching the
programme.
--
Jim A.
Laurence G. Tilley
BRAVO! I felt it was a great shame that one or two used this thread to
take a snipe at Alan T. I for one don't find him slimy or starstruck.
I always turn to his column in GW magazine first, because it is often
funny, and sometimes a source of insight. I also thought that his
tribute to Geoff at the start of last week's show was very moving.
So I for one will be quite happy if he takes over as the new host.
Regards,
Laurence G. Tilley
Gary Cooper
In article <4us2v6$6...@yama.mcc.ac.uk>
ymu...@nessie.mcc.ac.uk "Steven Burley" writes:
>
> Does anybody remember what happened to Geoffrey Smith? The double act
> between him and Stefan Buczacki used to be one of the great TV joys of
> the early '80s. And he was on GQT for years.
Geoffrey Smith would, in fact, be my choice for GW. He's
a character, that much is for certain and he has a
tremendous, transparent, love of his subject.
He's currently a regular on Radio 4's Gardener's Question
Time.
--
Gary Cooper
Kevin Pyke
Surely Bob Flowerdew on an alternative Gardners world would be the answer!
kevin
Gary Cooper
In article <Gp1D8UA4...@lgtilley.demon.co.uk>
laur...@lgtilley.demon.co.uk "Laurence G. Tilley" writes:
>
> BRAVO! I felt it was a great shame that one or two used this thread to
> take a snipe at Alan T. I for one don't find him slimy or starstruck.
> I always turn to his column in GW magazine first, because it is often
> funny, and sometimes a source of insight. I also thought that his
> tribute to Geoff at the start of last week's show was very moving.
>
> So I for one will be quite happy if he takes over as the new host.
As someone very kindly moved this to a new thread, may I
suggest that we move it there, please? It seems.....
distasteful to be wrangling about Geoff's successor in a
thread lamenting his death.
This isn't in the *least* a flame, BTW, just a request.
--
Gary Cooper
Ian Black
k.p...@rhbnc.ac.uk (Kevin Pyke) wrote:
>Surely Bob Flowerdew on an alternative Gardners world would be the answer!
>kevin
Good grief! If Bob Flowerdew is the answer, what the hell was the
question?
;-)
Ian
Nick Harrison
> Geoffrey Smith would, in fact, be my choice for GW. He's a character,
> that much is for certain and he has a tremendous, transparent, love of
> his subject.
but his over lyrical language and his inability to stick to the
question/subject in hand drive me up the wall.
--
/| / i c k /
/ |/ ni...@lilyg.demon.co.uk / Lancaster
Nick Harrison /
Dunkley
I quite like Alan Titchmarsh. Perhaps we should all hope that GW gets a
sympathetic producer.
He,Roy Lancaster or Anna Pavord would get my vote.
Please not Pippa Greenwood! I like Anne Swithinbank she has a lovely voice
so important in a presenter and, I think, the common touch.
I like Gay Search but her voice is so thin and piping which is a shame.
I wish channel four would re run Flowering Passions with Anna Pavord as
presenter. It was wonderful.
DWatk59135
Stephan might have fallen out with the radio depts at the Beeb but he will
be chairing a new TV show next year,researchers are being set on now.
Gary Cooper
In article <4v1q7v$o...@newsbf02.news.aol.com>
dwatk...@aol.com "DWatk59135" writes:
> Stephan might have fallen out with the radio depts at the Beeb but he will
> be chairing a new TV show next year,researchers are being set on now.
Excellent news! I've greatly missed his sensible, scientific approach.
--
Gary Cooper
Andy Aldridge
Ian Black (ianb...@easynet.co.uk) wrote:
I have to say that in my, admittedly limited, opinion, Bob is the
ideal man to step into Geoff's shoes, he's passionate, he's down to
earth, he's brimming with great money saving ideas, and his plot in
Norfolk always fascinated me as much as Barnsdale.
And off course there's that hair!
But really I can't imagine anyone having the same impact on GW as
Geoff did, I reckon they should maybe lose the anchor-person
altogether.
That's my 2p anyway, and as long as Geoff's departure doesn't mean
more Titchmarsh on the telly I'll be happy.
Andy
--
Admin: The Galaxie 500 Mailing List
WWW : http://www.aald.demon.co.uk/
Lynda Thornton
In article <k.pyke-1408...@mac6.bl.rhbnc.ac.uk>, Kevin Pyke
<k.p...@rhbnc.ac.uk> writes
>Surely Bob Flowerdew on an alternative Gardners world would be the answer!
>kevin
recycling and re-using gardening show. I'm sure he would have a regular
viewing public but unfortunately I don't think he could attract and
maintain the size of audience GW must have. Many people wouldn't want
piles of old tyres or old refrigerators as garden features, however
worthwhile or useful they are and we don't all have allotments!
Talking of presenters, does anyone remember a very knowledgeable young
woman (also with a thick long plait!) who did some features in one of
the gardening programmes a couple of years ago (can't remember which
programme, probably a BBC2 or Channel 4 one though). She seemed very
young (early 20's at the most), a real child of the earth type and knew
her stuff - I think she was head gardener somewhere. I remember she
came across as very experienced, full of common sense and and presented
well - unfortunately, I've never seen her on TV again. I would
recommend her to have a major slot in the new GW, does anyone know who
she is (sorry for the lack of information).
Lynda Thornton
Judy & Martin Farncombe
Her surname is Klein, can't remember the first bit, could be
Carol. Anyway, I like her too, certainly a lot more than Bob
Flowerdew.
Judy Farncombe
Jon Rouse
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>Excellent news! I've greatly missed his sensible, scientific approach.
You mean 'zap all the bugs with chemicals'?
--
Usenet comments do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
Dave Shield
In article <kbqm...@brunt.demon.co.uk>, Clarke Brunt <cla...@brunt.demon.co.uk>
writes:
> In Article <UX3WnBAm...@wuli.demon.co.uk> Lynda Thornton writes:
> >Talking of presenters, does anyone remember a very knowledgeable young
> >woman (also with a thick long plait!) who did some features in one of
> >the gardening programmes a couple of years ago (can't remember which
> >programme, probably a BBC2 or Channel 4 one though).
>
> lyrata - "this one smells of Chok-lit..."
Yup - I remember her (though I'd forgotten what it was she was going into
raptures about). She appeared on "Dig!" - one of the better Channel Four
gardening programs.
I do wonder how well she would do actually presenting a program, as
opposed to appearing on it - I'd expect the two roles to call for very
different skills. Also, would she be interested in doing it anyway, if
she's already a head gardener.
Dave
Gary Cooper
In article <4v9j5e$k...@igateway.uk-po.com>
rou...@royalmail.co.uk "Jon Rouse" writes:
> >Excellent news! I've greatly missed his sensible, scientific approach.
>
> You mean 'zap all the bugs with chemicals'?
I don't think that's really a very fair representation of his
views, do you?
--
Gary Cooper
Jon Rouse
Gary Cooper <Coo...@wordshop.demon.co.uk> wrote:
>
>I don't think that's really a very fair representation of his
>views, do you?
That's how he comes across on the radio
Simon Curtis
I can recall a tv series featuring 'Mr Smiths Veg garden' or
something like that. I thought then that he was an excellent
presenter.
Chris Boulby
In article <UX3WnBAm...@wuli.demon.co.uk>, Lynda Thornton
<ly...@wuli.demon.co.uk> writes
>In article <k.pyke-1408...@mac6.bl.rhbnc.ac.uk>, Kevin Pyke
><k.p...@rhbnc.ac.uk> writes
>>Surely Bob Flowerdew on an alternative Gardners world would be the
answer!
>Talking of presenters, does anyone remember a very knowledgeable young
>woman (also with a thick long plait!) who did some features in one of
>the gardening programmes a couple of years ago (can't remember which
>programme, probably a BBC2 or Channel 4 one though).
Yes, and I have never forgotten her. It was a curious series about
people with strange ideas about gardening. She was from the South West
as I recall and she had a wonderful way of describing things. In
particular I recall her talking about a Cornus alternifolia "Argentea"
(I think) - the one which has such wonderful wedding cake branches - and
I have always wanted one since - its on the list!
Sorry I cannot tell you who she is, but I remember she worked at a
famous large garden in the South West.
--
Chris Boulby
Mandy Alford
Would this be Penelope Hobhouse? She was gardening at Tintinhull House in
south Somerset (National Trust) up until a few years ago; I saw the Cornus
there last week and it's on my list too! I don't know how much of the
garden at Tintinhull is still her work but the herbaceous borders bear the
hallmarks of her style - very strict about colour and form. They look
absolutely ravishing.
Hobhouse started her gardening career, I believe, at Hadspen House and has
written a number of books.
--
Mandy Alford
West Dorset
Chris Boulby <ch...@coniston.demon.co.uk> wrote in article
<mpAjgGAS...@coniston.demon.co.uk>...