As soon as news broke last Wednesday that Toby Buckland had been chosen as the new main presenter of Gardeners' World I tracked him down on his mobile to get his reaction.
As soon as last Wednesday that Toby Buckland had been chosen as the new main presenter of Gardeners' World I tracked him down on his mobile to get his reaction.
Toby was filming in Ireland for Gardeners' World - for a special on the 'peat issue' due for transmission in the new year.
"I'm really honoured", he told me. "It's daunting. I have such respect for all the main presenters who have gone before, especially Geoff, Alan and Monty. They all followed their passions, and made Gardeners' World their own. I'm hoping to do that, too".
So, what sort of gardener is Toby? "I'm a very practical person, and a practical gardener", he replied. "I've always loved Geoff Hamilton and his style of gardening. He really inspired me to get out into my own garden at the weekend, and I want to inspire people in the same way. I've gardened professionally as well as in my own back garden, so I have a wide range of views, opinions and experiences to share".
I've always found Toby incredibly friendly and open. He says he'll bring accessibility to the programme, and I agree. His articles and ideas in Gardeners' World Magazine in the past have always been accessible and achievable - things anyone could do - and we're looking forward to working even more closely with Toby and the programme in future, too.
Reading the comments in response to my previous blog, it's no surprise that Carol Klein has received such praise from her fans, some of whom were disappointed that she wasn't given the job of main presenter. She is so enthusiastic on TV, and equally passionate when you actually meet her.
Having spoken to our colleagues at BBC Birmingham I know that a lot of audience research of was undertaken prior to reaching the final decision. As with all important appointments such as this one, there were bound to be varying opinions at the outcome. However, I think Toby, Carol, Joe and Alys will make a great team and I can't wait to see the new series, which returns on Friday 12 September 2008.
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