A LEADING horticulturist has retired - and has had a plant named in his honour.

Roy Treherne (seen right), horticultural director of Wyevale Garden Centres, in Hereford, retired recently after 40 years of service.

Among many gifts and tributes, he was presented with a Zantedeschia (Calla Lily) which has been named Roy Treherne in his honour.

Mr Treherne, aged 60, has had a varied career with Wyevale Garden Centres, which has grown from small beginnings to incorporate 120 centres nationally.

His roles covered everything from managing a garden centre to co-ordinating special events, plant buying and garden centre acquisitions.

Promoted in 1987 to horticultural director, Mr Treherne took over responsibility for, among other things, Wyevale's entries for the Chelsea Flower Show, where the company has excelled over the years with six gold medals.

Mr Treherne, who also writes a gardening column for various local newspapers, plans to improve his culinary skills and spend more time in his own garden.