Charity Plant Heritage has announced its new chairman will be Sir Roderick Newton, who will take over from Cecilia Bufton after eight years. 

At the age of 18, Newton was offered a place at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, but turned it down to pursue legal studies in order to become a barrister, a judge and then a High Court judge in 2014. 

Retiring in 2023, Newton has been able to devote more time to his love of horticulture. He tends to his recognised National Plant Collection of Iris in his garden. 

Newton says taking on the position as chairman is an “honour,” adding:

“I’m particularly keen to inspire younger growers and gardeners from communities across the country to access the work of Plant Heritage.”

Gwen Hines, chief executive of Plant Heritage says she is “thrilled” to welcome Newton, explaining that his “combined wealth of experience on leadership and governance makes him the perfect person to lead the charity”.

Plant Heritage welcomes Newton ahead of its 50th anniversary, a milestone it will celebrate in 2028.