Next Presenter of Gardeners' World?

[Spruance]

I realise that this topic has been covered in some respects already, but as you may have noticed, the original thread has now been withdrawn. Enough said.

Most of us have followed the BBC's flagship gardening programme over the years, and whatever our views of Monty Don's style of presenting, I am sure that we all wish him a speedy recovery from his recently announced ill health.

With Monty stepping down, who would you most like to see take over the role as main presenter of Gardeners' World?

There will be a poll based on all of the suggestions received by next Friday 30th May, so fire away.

Oh, and serious suggestions only please!

[Deleted]

Spru I choose charlie dimmock no not cos im female she is like me and gets stuck in to things, not even sure if she is on there but why not ;D

Karen x

[Deleted]

My vote goes for the very SERIOUS Brian Harvey.

[Spruance]

I should have added that my suggestion would be Carol Klein.

Carol makes an excellent host as as she seems to get on well with other presenters, is very knowledgeable, and just seems to suit the programme very well in my opinion.

[Auricula]

Chris Beardshaw

[Weeterrier]

I don't think a new presenter is required at all. I am quite sure that the team that is left could manage perfectly well. Probably Alys would do more, but I do hope she ties her hair back when she is working, or my hands will be itching to dive through the screen with a bit of ribbon. ;D
To satisfy everyone, maybe Brian Harvey could have a cameo shot now and again. Let's face it, he would attract a whole new audience to gardening.

[Slugger]

Helen Yemm

[beanie]

I like carol klein she talks to you, and not at you. she's very enthusiastic and makes you feel that you want to get involved in whatever she's doing

[Mr Grinch]

I thought it was only the year off, coming back next year ??

G

[Spruance]

May 24, 2008 19:55:30 GMT Mr Grinch said:

I thought it was only the year off, coming back next year ??

G

My understanding (just checked via news websites) is that he will still do work for the BBC after he recovers, but he will no longer be main presenter on GW, hence this thread.

[Dr Bill]

I wonder if Carol and Joe will share the job? I have grown to like Joe's style and Carol's enthusiasm and "hands on " approach is very infectious. So Joe and Carol alternate weeks and continued guest appearances from the fragrant Rachel and all the others, with Alys keeping the garden ticking over.

[Mr Grinch]

To be honest im gutted Monty's not coming back full time ! Defo no to Joe, Carol's nice but fronting the program ?? Its CB for me, i think he's the only realistic choice !

G

[Deleted]

I don't like Joe Swift because of his monotone voice and I don't like Carol Klein for no real reason other than I've just never warmed to her.

Chris Beardshaw seems pretty easy going and has a pleasant manner about him. I'd probably go for him as the main presenter although I also like Rachel De Thame ( ).

Does it really need a main presenter ? Maybe this is a chance for them to revamp the programme to make it more watchable. I haven't watched it for ages.

How about a few ideas as to what would make the programme more watchable as well as who you'd like to present it.

FA x

PS - Maybe Brian Harvey could write a new rap style theme tune ?

[JennyWrenn]

Sven Wombwell has a cheeky charm about him ;D
And Christine of course ;D

But where is SIMON HARRISON-KNIBBS - and Ryan Durrant - they make such an entertaining couple

[Auricula]

Good idea Andy. I wish they would have a regular spot for "what to do now in your garden" mentioning broad climatic differences eg. In colder areas delay this for a week etc.
Also, what cuttings to take when. Suggesting gardens to visit, when they are at their most interesting would be good too

[Biggles]

Yes I agree with the views of Andy and auricula.

[Yakram]

Phil Collins (Blue Peter gardener, not pop star) and Matt James (City Gardener)
Plus, guest slots from the brilliant members on this Board.

[Plocket]

I think Phil Collins is great - enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The trouble is I think the Beeb will find him too Cockney!

Personally I think it would be respectful to have Carol and Joe take over as co-presenters, and leave the search until the new season.

[Auricula]

I think his name is Chris Collins. He is good but a little of his "geezer" personna goes a long way I don't think they'll do anything until this series ends ( unless Carol doesn't want to keep traipsing around the country) and then they'll have a golden opportunity to take on board all our wonderful ideas!!! - oops...watch out for that low flying pig!! ;D ;D

[Shrubrose]

Based on the very little I saw of him on one of the early GW progs in this series, I'd take a risk and plump for Toby Buckland (thanks for the name 4P . I liked his easy style and his love of gardening really came through.

[Plocket]

Yes you are right Auricula - it's Chris Collins. He's very nice but as you say a little bit goes a long way

[Spruance]

Last orders suggestions please for new GW presenter.

I will aim to set up the poll this evening and it will then remain open for one week.

[Plocket]

Matthew whatsis face from Harlow Carr

[Weeterrier]

Oh yes, he's rather easy on the eye. Not that I'm shallow or anything

And Spru..................don't you be forgetting Brian Harvey

[purplejulia]

I would choose Bob Flowerdew - partly for his beautiful locks and his innovative ideas.

PJ

[Spruance]

Ok off we go.

All of the candidates mentioned in the preceding posts have been included in the poll.

One vote per registered member. Votes visible after voting, and the poll will close at 19:51 (UK time) on Friday 6th June 2008, although the thread itself will remain open.

[Cheerypeabrain]

I've just watched tonight's programme (May 30th) and thought that Carol, Joe and Alys did a splendid job. I don't think they need a replacement for Monty.

[Auricula]

Don't think much of Alys, but enjoyed the programme. Feel sorry for Joe and his goji berries as I don't know them and would have liked to see how they developed. Have you noticed that Carol's dress and hair have become much more "mainstream" since she has become the main presenter? I hope she hasn't been pressured by "the powers that be"!! ;D ;D

[4pygmies]

I shall go against the trend and nominate Cleve West - a brilliant gardener with a proven record, really good 'on camera' and interested in all aspects of gardening. I don't suppose he would be very keen though as it seems to demand such a huge committment. I think he'd be great though

[Weeterrier]

I think Carol did a great job last night. I don't mind that she waves her arms about and sounds excited. She LOVES plants, and it shows. Also, she gets down and dirty. So I voted for her.