GUEST SPEAKERS

Philip is one of the most recognisable auctioneers appearing on a number of television antique programmes. A long way from his first job as a PE teacher – Philip now owns an auction house in Worcestershire dealing with a myriad of items.

David has over 40 years of horticulture experience, which began at Threave and Inverewe before he progressed to become a curator at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.

Gareth Austin is a Chartered Horticulturalist and for over 16 years has been the voice of gardening on BBC Radio Foyle in Northern Ireland.

Kate Humble grew up in rural Hampshire where she learned to ride and developed a lifelong passion for mucking out. Kate has been presenting programmes, and writing books and articles for over 20 years.

Simon Calder began his career at Gatwick Airport, where he cleaned out planes for Sir Freddie Laker, and later, frisked passengers. He then started to write travel books and articles.

Zoe is a qualified Ride Leader and British Cycling Coach with over 15 years’ experience creating supportive, well-organised rides and events, from relaxed multi-day trips to inclusive cycling projects focused on wellbeing and confidence.

Mike Bullock had a 34 year career with the Royal Navy which included service in service vessels and submarines as well as posts ashore in the British Embassy in Washington DC, NATO, the Pentagon and Navy Command HQ.

James Naughtie is one of the country’s best known broadcasters – a special correspondant for BBC News, formerly a present of the Today Programme for 21 years, and the host of the Bookclub on Radio 4 for almost three decades.

Colin Montgomerie (“Monty”) is a leading European golfer, winning 57 tournaments and competing in eight Ryder Cups, captaining Europe to victory in 2010. A prolific course designer, he was awarded an MBE in 1998 and an OBE in 2005.

Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, is a bestselling cookbook author, TV presenter, and social media sensation from the Outer Hebrides. Celebrated for his island-inspired bakes and storytelling, he brings traditional recipes and Gaelic culture to life.

Garry Richardson has been broadcasting with the BBC for over 50 years. During that time, he has interview some of the world’s most famous people, including Nelson Mandela, Muhammad Ali, and President Bill Clinton.

Rosalind Whyte is an experienced, Arts Society accredited lecturer and guide at Tate Britain, Tate Modern and the Royal Academy. She has a particular interest in Scottish art and artists.

Michael researches, writes and lectures on architectural history and conservation themes, and is a visiting lecturer at the University of Strathclyde. His books include The Castles and Mansions of Ayrshire, Scots Baronial and The Scottish Castle Restoration Debate.

Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, is a bestselling cookbook author, TV presenter, and social media sensation from the Outer Hebrides. Celebrated for his island-inspired bakes and storytelling, he brings traditional recipes and Gaelic culture to life.

Jim Jermyn is an internationally recognised horticulturist and Alpine plant specialist with over five decades of experience. A gifted communicator, Jim’s talks bring plants to life—sharing stories, expertise, and practical inspiration drawn from a lifetime among the world’s most beautiful gardens.

David Sexton worked for the RSPB on the Isle of Mull. He was previously Head of RSPB’s Land Management Department in Edinburgh and on Mull he was responsible for monitoring the important populations of white-tailed and golden eagles and overseeing the award-winning public viewing project Mull Eagle Watch.

Andy has been an obsessive wildlife enthusiast ever since he can remember. Educated at Cambridge, Newcastle and Imperial College, he then embarked on a career in nature conservation. Now an Environmental Consultant, Andy is an enthusiastic traveller and has led wildlife groups to numerous places around the world.

David Sexton worked for the RSPB on the Isle of Mull. He was previously Head of RSPB’s Land Management Department in Edinburgh and on Mull he was responsible for monitoring the important populations of white-tailed and golden eagles and overseeing the award-winning public viewing project Mull Eagle Watch.

Colin Prior, born in Glasgow in 1958, developed a passion for wild places shaped by the
Scottish Highlands. His career began in underwater photography, winning Best
Newcomer in 1981. His work spans over 50 countries, nine books, major awards, and three BBC documentaries.

Damian Barr is an award-winning writer, broadcaster and host. In 2019, Damian brought books back to television with the BBC’s Big Scottish Book Club, now in its seventh series.
In Spring 2024, Damian’s memoir Maggie & Me was a major play from the National Theatre of Scotland.

John Lippiett had a 36 year career in the Royal Navy which included command of 3 ships at different seniorities, a frigate squadron and the School of Maritime Warfare, and culminating in three appointments at flag rank. He took early retirement in 2003 and became Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust.

Rosemary, a former nursery owner, is an experienced public speaker, she is on the RHS Speakers Register, a NAFAS Speaker and New Forest Chairman of the RHS Rhododendron, Camellia and Magnolia Group. She has written contributions for RHS publications and for the book ‘1001 Gardens you must see before you die.