Remembering John Ravenscroft

We were saddened to hear of the passing of John Ravenscroft, nurseryman and founder of Bridgemere Nurseries, Bridgemere Garden World and Cherry Tree Arboretum & Nursery.

John was a highly respected figure in British horticulture and a recipient of the RHS Victoria Medal of Honour. Over many years he made a significant contribution to horticulture, both through his own work and through the specialist growing teams he developed.

At Trentham, John was involved in the development of a number of planting projects around the lakeside and Burkes Wood over the last decade. His knowledge of rare and historic varieties, together with an appreciation of outstanding new introductions, helped inform the selection of trees for the Burkes Wood Magnolia Collection, choice oaks around the lakeside walks and the stands of Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Candyfloss Trees) that are now a familiar part of the landscape. John visited Trentham on numerous occasions as these plantings became established and was always interested in seeing their progress.

As the magnolias come into flower each spring and the Candyfloss Grove develops its autumn colour, they serve as a reminder of the contribution he made to the gardens.

Our thoughts are with John’s family, friends and former colleagues at this time.