Pink rose is tribute to Royal bride Kate Middleton

Tuesday 22nd March 2011, 11:30AM GMT.

Pink rose is tribute to Royal bride Kate Middleton

A world-renowned rose grower from the Midlands is saying it with flowers by launching two new varieties named after Royal bride Kate Middleton.

Delighted staff at David Austin Roses said the new English roses were their “personal tribute” to Prince William and the future queen, who get married next month at Westminster Abbey.

The striking raspberry pink cut rose, Kate, will be exclusively available from the family-run nurseries in Albrighton.

And in May, the rose breeder will celebrate another exclusive when it presents the new English Rose garden shrub William and Catherine at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Mr Austin’s son, also called David and managing director of the company, said: “We are delighted to add this exquisite new rose to our portfolio of cut flowers. We have named it Kate as a tribute to the happy couple. We are expecting it to become a firm favourite with brides.”

The news that the raspberry pink bloom will be the eighth addition to the cut rose collection was revealed at a free workshop for brides-to-be looking for tips to create their own personal wedding themes.

Jane Williams, a florist at the plant centre, demonstrated how to make table decorations, bridal bouquets and corsages during the hour-long sessions, which left the women buzzing with ideas for their own weddings.

Seeking help with her colour scheme when she gets married in September was Kylie Ward, 25, of Wednesfield.

The biomedical scientist at New Cross Hospital, said: “The flowers are beautiful. I’ve come with my aunty, who is a florist, to get some ideas for my wedding.

“I’m getting married at Packington Moor, near Lichfield, and can’t decide between coral and fuschia for the bridesmaids. We’ve brought some swatches of fabric along for advice on which is the best colour.”

Mr Austin added: “As breeders of the English Roses we very much wanted to name our newest roses in celebration of the forthcoming Royal Wedding.

“The flowers of William and Catherine are particularly beautiful.”



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