The Eden Project has paid tribute to Sir Richard Carew Pole, who died peacefully at home in Cornwall on Sunday, December 1, aged 85.
Sir Richard was a Director of the Eden Project between 1999 and 2001 and then a Trustee between 2002 and 2007 and was an instrumental figure at the project during his tenure.
His distinguished career also included a period as President of the Royal Horticultural Society from 2001 to 2006.
Sir Richard was a keen gardener and plantsman. His family estate, Antony near Torpoint in east Cornwall, is famed for its beautiful gardens which include a historic collection of daylilies.
In a joint statement on behalf of the Eden Project, Andy Jasper, Chief Executive Officer and Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, said:
“The Eden Project, the County of Cornwall and the nation lost a true champion and a national treasure on Sunday.
“We at the Eden Project, where Sir Richard was a Trustee in our early formative years, hugely mourn his passing. He was a man of legendary dedication to Cornwall and his visionary leadership was instrumental in the creation of Tate St Ives and the Eden Project, sparking a renaissance in the region.
“As President of the Royal Horticultural Society from 2001 to 2006, he elevated the organisation to new heights, earning the Victoria Medal of Honour in 2007 for his exceptional contributions to horticulture.
“His profound love for gardens and Cornwall was evident in all he did. To many, he was not only a professional ally but also a cherished friend. Cornwall has lost one of a very special breed. A public servant of honour and distinction in a world where these attributes have never been more needed or deserving of notice.
“We send our deepest condolences to Sir Richard’s wife, Lady Carew Pole, and to Tremayne and John, their two sons. Thank you for sharing this special man with all of us.”
