Winners announced for 2025 RHS People Awards
BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Arit Anderson among 19 recipients of the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) People Awards.
Awards presented at the ceremony, which took place at Lindley Hall in London this week, include the Victoria Medal of Honour (VMH), the Elizabeth Medal of Honour (EMH), and the Veitch Memorial Award (VM)
Anderson was awarded the VM for her contribution to the science and practice of horticulture.
Her fellow recipients, Dr Charlotte Allender and Maïté Delmas were recognised for their work in preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Recipients of the EMH were Sir Nicholas Bacon, former RHS president, Dr Clare Hermans who became the first female chair of the RHS Orchid Committee, and head gardener at the British ambassador’s residence in Washington D.C, John Sonnier.
Recipients of the VMH were Ron Scamp, recognised for his breeding of daffodils, Sarah Cook for her work in reintroducing species known to be extinct in the wild, and Garden Plant Series author Martyn Rix, who is known for leading botanical explorations around the world.
Scamp was one of six to receive both the EMH and the VMH; at any one time only 70 EMHs and 63 VMHs are held.
Tim Upson, RHS director of gardens and horticulture, shares his congratulations:
“These honours acknowledge the extraordinary passion, dedication, and expertise of those who have made a real difference to horticulture. This year’s recipients have not only enriched gardens and communities but have also contributed to the future of horticulture through conservation, education, and sustainable practices around the world.”
Nominations for the 2026 RHS People Awards will open on 1 June 2025.
More information on the RHS People Awards and this year’s recipients can be found at rhs.org.uk/about-us/our-people/rhs-awards.