- David J.C. Austin, the chair of David Austin Roses, has died at the age of 67 after being diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare neurological disorder.
- Tributes are being led by Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don, who praised Mr Austin's legacy of "millions of exquisite roses".
- Mr Austin joined the family business in 1990, following his father, and led it for over 30 years, transforming it from a specialist nursery into a globally recognised name.
- His children described him as "first and foremost, a gardener" who carried his grandfather's vision with humility and an unwavering sense of responsibility.
- The company said it will continue under its current leadership team, working with the next generation of the Austin family.
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