Garden and greenhouse calling for RHS president

17:34 3rd December 2009

The president of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has admitted the desire to spend more time with his wife and in his own garden and greenhouse played a part in his decision to announce his retirement.

Giles Coode-Adams OBE explained that turning 70 also made him feel like it was time to enjoy a more sedentary existence after years in the financial world and almost a decade on the committee of the RHS.

He was appointed president a year ago this month after the passing of former leader Peter Buckley, before being officially elected to continue in the role at the 2009 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

However, the 2010 AGM will feature another election, with Elizabeth Banks being asked to put herself forward for consideration as the 70-year-old's replacement

"I had not expected to become president of this remarkable charity and it has been a very rewarding role, working with wonderful people who do an amazing job to help millions of people benefit from the very best in horticulture," he said.

The RHS this week revealed that its 2010 Chelsea Flower Show is expected to be bigger than ever after it secured a three-year sponsorship deal.