THE founder of a Bransford business which became one of the UK's foremost growers and suppliers of garden plants has died aged 89.
John Tooby took over New House Farm in 1936, growing hops and fruit. He established the nursery now known as Bransford Garden Plants in 1963.
He had many interests, including serving as an independent county councillor, a governor at Pershore College and The Chase Technology College. He also chaired Worcestershire National Farmers' Union and Young Farmers' Club. His hobbies included birdwatching, piano playing and bridge.
Mr Tooby was also respected as an authority in his profession, writing and researching many papers, including a definitive one on the early introduction of camellias from China, and serving as president of the International Camellia Society from 1986-8.
He pioneered camellia trial grounds across the UK and the nursery has named his last plant selection, a new camellia "John Tooby", in honour of its founder.
Mr Tooby died on Friday, November 8. His funeral takes place at noon on tomorrow (Saturday), at Leigh Church, with a gathering afterwards at the Bank House Hotel in Bransford.
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