Trustee of Plant Heritage and chair of the Plant Heritage North West Group has been awarded an MBE in The New Year Honours List 2024.
Catherine Penny will receive the award from King Charles III for her services to plant conservation and the community in North Preston, Lancashire.
Penny was the first secretary of Plant Heritage’s Lancashire group, joining the committee of Plant Heritage’s North West group in 2008, and becoming group chair two years later.
Her National Plant collection of historic Pemberton roses which is held within the private gardens of Dutton Hall was accredited in 2016.
When discussing the award Penny says; “It is a huge honour that my plant conservation and community work has been recognised with an MBE.”
The award is also being given in recognition of her notable community work in supporting young and vulnerable people and other charities in Lancashire.
She goes on to say; “So many plants are sadly at risk, whether from climate change, disease or changing trends.
“I am passionate about conserving endangered, interesting and valuable plants for future generations to enjoy, so I hope this award will encourage others to do their bit and get involved in plant conservation too.”