The Duke of Rothesay has confirmed he will remain Patron of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). His Royal Highness will, therefore, be in post during the organisation’s 350^th anniversary celebrations in 2020.

His Royal Highness has been hugely supportive of RBGE, its work and its four Gardens at Edinburgh, Benmore, Logan and Dawyck since originally accepting the role in 2002, when he succeeded Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, as Patron.

Regius Keeper Simon Milne MBE commented: “His Royal Highness’ support to the institution is valued most highly. He has a deep understanding of the challenges facing the environment, considerable knowledge of plants and a keen eye for gardens. His renewed Patronage means a great deal to us.”

HRH has visited RBGE on numerous occasions, including the official opening of the restored Victorian Palm House, in 2005; in the company of Her Majesty The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess of Rothesay for the official opening of the Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden, in 2006, and to witness the devastation wreaked by severe gales in 2012.

ENDS

For interviews, images or more information please contact: Shauna Hay on +44 (0)131 248 2900/07824529028 or Charlotte McDonald on 0131 248 2925

EDITOR’S NOTES

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a leading international research organisation delivering knowledge, education and plant conservation action around the world. In Scotland its four Gardens at Edinburgh, Benmore, Dawyck and Logan attract a million visitors each year. It operates as a Non Departmental Public Body established under the National Heritage (Scotland) Act 1985, principally funded by the Scottish Government. It is also a registered charity, managed by a Board of Trustees appointed by Ministers. Its mission is “To explore, conserve and explain the world of plants for a better future”.

Learn more: www.rbge.org.uk