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Sarah Raven’s ‘financial difficulties’ revealed by RICHARD EDEN’S DIARY – as company’s next drastic move threatens to devastate gardeners

BBG News

Instead of inheriting a 35,000-acre Highland estate, her mother owned a vast property in the Scottish Highlands. Meanwhile, her husband, noted author Adam Nicolson, and their family were closely associated with Sissinghurst Castle in Kent. This historic castle is famous for the magical garden that was developed by his grandmother, Vita Sackville-West, who was known for it.

It’s important to remember that even though Sarah Raven is a well-known gardener, she isn’t immune to the effects of economic conditions.

It’s true that she, along with Nicolson (who is 67 years old), have recently implemented urgent actions to safeguard the continuity of Sarah’s well-known gardening business – a company they jointly lead, serving close to a million customers.

This might seem inconceivable, given that, in 2022, it had a turnover of £23million.

But a year later that had fallen to £18million – with a profit of just £66,000.

Following continued financial struggles, exacerbated by higher National Insurance payments for employers and unusual weather conditions, the duo have opted to place their company, Sarah Raven’s Kitchen & Garden, under administration. This step could potentially pave the way for Raven to regain ownership of it with the help of a small, unnamed investor group. This significant decision might cause unease or even fear among those who have been purchasing plants, bulbs, and seeds from the company since its establishment in 2008. Many also visit Perch Hill Farm, Raven’s testing ground for seeds as well as their residence in East Sussex, during one of the 25 annual open days.

Yet, Raven, aged 62, exhibits an unyielding spirit. An author of seven published works, she rises at 5 am, be it at Perch Hill or during the winters at her residence in southern London.

She expresses that establishing her business represents a lifelong endeavor, while her goal is to persist in cultivating all the delightful aspects of top-notch gardening.

However, the restructured company will operate without Alison Doherty as the CEO and Gavin Street as the CFO, as they are no longer part of the team.

 

The Crown’s Charles books a date with Queen Camilla 

In an earlier statement, Dominic West mentioned that his portrayal of King Charles in The Crown may have negatively impacted his personal connection with the monarch.

After having helped the Prince’s Trust in the past, West, aged 55, admitted that those invitations seemed to cease following his appearance on the Netflix show.

Here’s my attempt: Similarly, it was mentioned that there might have been an opportunity for me to be recognized for my contributions to acting with an award. However, I am happy to share that my connection with the royal family remains intact, and I will be gracing The Queen’s Reading Room Festival’s Poetry Spectacular at Chatsworth in September.

The charitable organization is dedicated to ‘honoring and spreading the value and advantages of reading,’ which was founded under the patronage of Queen Camilla. Recently, during a social gathering, she affectionately referred to West as ‘Your Majesty.’

Should the King be worried?

 

Lady Kitty in roses for Roman tribute 

Just like the saying goes, ‘When you’re in Rome, follow the Romans’ lead,’ Lady Kitty Spencer donned a gown reminiscent of ancient Rome.

Diana’s niece, who serves as an ambassador for Dolce & Gabbana, graced the runway at their Alta Moda fashion show in Rome, donning a piece inspired by Ancient Roman times. The 34-year-old model stood out in a floral-embroidered dress and rose headband, with many taking notice. She described her experience as “an incredible homage to Rome.

Lady Kitty, wife of fashion mogul Michael Lewis (age 66), expressed her fondness for the countryside, stating, “Spending time in Italy and immersed in its culture has undeniably helped me cherish the wonders of existence.

 

Classical scholar Mary Beard, known from TV, has sent a video message to Cambridge University graduates, encouraging them to participate in electing the new Chancellor at Senate House. ‘Fret not if you lack the full scholarly equipment,’ Professor Beard reassures. ‘They’ll provide you with a gown upon arrival, and that’s what I plan to do – join me there.’ Regarding her potential choice for the Chancellor position, BBC Two colleague Sandi Toksvig, she remains tight-lipped about it.

 

Is pop music Lila’s next career move? 

Although Kate Moss was seen revisiting her party-going times at Glastonbury and BST Hyde Park, her daughter Lila is strategizing her future professional steps.

Instead of using her full name, Lila Grace Moss-Hack, the 22-year-old model has decided to go by ‘Lila Moss’ and has applied for a trademark with the Intellectual Property Office for this name, as it echoes her mother’s professional identity.

As a die-hard fan, I’m beyond excited about this application! It seems to encompass an array of goods like apparel, makeup, bags, and jewelry – stuff I’d proudly wear or own. But

 

One night only! Stars in Tangier 

How about this as an interesting cast lineup? Gillian Anderson from Sex Education teamed up with Michelle Dockery, a star from Downton Abbey, for a one-time performance in Tangier, Morocco. They performed an outdoor rendition of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard alongside other talented actors such as Sir Derek Jacobi and Dame Penelope Wilton.

The event took place on Veere Grenney’s beautiful estate. ‘It was a truly remarkable occasion, and I must say the outstanding performers really made it special,’ expressed Anderson. The funds raised will be given to local charities.

 

Ronnie Wood’s ex-wife Jo expresses concern that men are attracted to her because of her association with the Rolling Stones guitarist rather than for who she is as an individual. She recalls a particular instance where a man took her out on a date, gave her a newspaper and pointed to a picture of Ronnie, asking her to share stories about him. This brief encounter didn’t last long.

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2025-07-16 03:53

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