Andrew Gaunt wins prestigious RHS Veitch Memorial Medal as APHA inspector secures top horticultural honour in London

Recognition has been given to Andrew Gaunt, a Plant Health and Seeds Inspector with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), after he received the esteemed Veitch Memorial Medal from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The award celebrates outstanding contributions to horticultural science and practice on an international level.

A Landmark Achievement for APHA

Gaunt has made history as the first Plant Health and Seeds Inspector within APHA to receive this honour.

His recognition reflects not only his personal dedication but also highlights the agency’s broader commitment to excellence in plant health protection and scientific advancement.

The award ceremony took place at RHS Linley Hall in London on Tuesday, 24 March, where his contributions to horticulture were formally acknowledged by industry leaders and experts.

Commitment to Plant Health and Biosecurity

Throughout his career, Gaunt has played a vital role in safeguarding plant health.

His work includes discovering over 65 “new findings,” including identifying a weevil on Inga edulis that was new to science.

He also led on major plant health incidents, including the first European outbreak of Thrips palmi and the initial interception of Xylella fastidiosa in 2015.

His responsibilities have extended beyond inspections.

Gaunt has been instrumental in delivering biosecurity training, working alongside organizations such as the RHS, National Trust, and English Heritage to strengthen awareness across the horticultural sector.

Recognition from Industry and Government Leaders

Richard Lewis, Chief Executive of APHA, praised Gaunt’s dedication, noting his tireless efforts and exceptional contribution to the agency’s mission.

He described the award as a well-deserved recognition of Gaunt’s outstanding work.

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Professor Nicola Spence, Chief Plant Health Officer at Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), also highlighted Gaunt’s expertise.

She emphasized his National Plant Collection of Hedychium, commonly known as flowering gingers, as a significant resource for conserving plant diversity and supporting public education.

Passion Beyond Professional Duties

Gaunt’s commitment to horticulture extends well beyond his official role.

Since 1998, he has been collecting Hedychium ginger lilies, achieving National Collection Status in 2008.

His collection contributes to conservation efforts and is open for public visits and educational purposes.

He is also a member of the Plant Heritage Conservation Committee and has contributed plants to prestigious displays, including the Gold Medal stands at the Chelsea Flower Show for Plant Heritage in 2021 and APHA in 2025.

A Voice from the Recipient

Expressing his gratitude, Gaunt described the horticultural community as energetic, enthusiastic, and supportive.

He said receiving the medal from an institution like the RHS made the recognition especially meaningful, acknowledging the importance of collaboration within the industry.

Impact and Consequences

This award underscores the critical role of plant health professionals in protecting agriculture, ecosystems, and biodiversity.

Gaunt’s work demonstrates how scientific discovery, field inspections, and public engagement come together to strengthen biosecurity efforts.

His recognition also shines a spotlight on APHA’s work, reinforcing public trust in its efforts to monitor and manage plant health threats.

By highlighting achievements like Gaunt’s, the industry can inspire greater awareness and participation in safeguarding plant resources.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Gaunt’s continued involvement in biosecurity training and plant health initiatives is expected to further strengthen industry practices.

His influence will likely contribute to expanding awareness of quarantine pests and improving early detection systems.

The ongoing collaboration between government agencies, horticultural bodies, and conservation organizations suggests that his work will remain central to future plant health strategies.

Summary

Andrew Gaunt’s receipt of the RHS Veitch Memorial Medal marks a significant milestone in his career and for APHA as an organization.

His extensive contributions to plant health science, biosecurity training, and conservation have earned him international recognition and highlight the importance of continued investment in horticultural expertise.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Andrew Gaunt becomes the first APHA Plant Health Inspector to win the RHS Veitch Memorial Medal
• Award recognizes his contributions to horticultural science and plant health protection
• Discovered over 65 notable plant health findings, including a new species
• Played a key role in managing major outbreaks like Thrips palmi and Xylella fastidiosa
• Instrumental in developing biosecurity training across the horticultural industry
• Maintains a National Collection of Hedychium (flowering gingers)
• His collection supports conservation and public education
• Recognized by APHA and Defra leadership for excellence and dedication
• Award highlights the importance of plant health in protecting biodiversity and agriculture