HORTICULTURAL enthusiasts from all over the country came to Malvern for the funeral of Mrs Hope Scott.

Mrs Scott, who died on November 1, aged 64, was a leading light in the world of gardening nationally. The funeral service was held at Christ Church, Avenue Road, on Monday, November 12.

She was a prominent member of Malvern Horticultural Society, joining the committee and subsequently becoming its show manager.

"She was a proper stalwart of the show without a doubt," said committee member Jim Tudge, "She will be missed greatly."

Mrs Scott was also a member of the committee of the Three Counties Open Garden Show, which took place in the spring and, in latter years, in the autumn. She became chairman of the committee in 1998.

She was also a member of the National Vegetable Society, serving on the committee of its Midlands branch and editing the branch's newsletter.

She became a fellow of the society and a national judge.

She also lectured at workshops for the National Vegetable Society and the Royal Horticultural Society.

"She specialised in shallots, but she could grow anything. Altogether she was a splendid person," said Mr Tudge.

Paying tribute, see Property, page XVI.