James Wong to speak at Trustees’ Charity Ball

We are delighted to announce that James Wong will be our guest speaker at this year’s Trustees’ Charity Ball.  James is as equally excited about speaking at our Dinner as we are welcoming him.  James is a Kew-trained botanist, writer and broadcaster. Graduating with a master of science degree in Ethnobotany in 2006, he has pursued his key research interests of underutilised crop species & traditional food systems through field work in rural Ecuador, Java & Southern China.

He is the author of the best-selling books ‘Grow Your Own Drugs’ and ‘Homegrown Revolution’, as well as a presenter of programmes including BBC2’s award-winning ‘Grow Your Own Drugs’ & ‘Countryfile’ and Radio 4’s “Gardeners Question Time‘.

Becoming an RHS ambassador in 2014, James is passionate about communicating plant science to new audiences in relevant and accessible ways. With his obsession for food nearly eclipsing his love of plants, James’ small London garden serves as a testing station for all manner of crops and horticultural ideas from around the world.

We have a new band this year, the Subterraneans who have acted as support bands for Hazel O’Connor, T’Pau, Toya Wilcox and David Bowie (Live Aid) and play regularly at the Jam House and Glastonbury. They will be a perfect support band for James.

The Charity Ball takes place on 30th September and although this may appear a long way away we are encouraging people to ‘Save the Date’ and reserve a table.  Tables are £750 and reservations can be made by emailing Marie Purcell.  This promises to be a truly remarkable evening and what better way to have fun whilst raising funds for our beloved Gardens.