Monty Don has said a final farewell to viewers after more than 20 years on Gardeners’ World.
The veteran broadcaster, 71, filmed his last episode of the BBC series from Longmeadow, the garden where the show has been based for 16 years.
It aired tonight (November 6), about two months after the announcement was made that the star was set to leave the role.
In a reflective goodbye, he thanked viewers for sharing the journey with him.
Monty Don's final message as he leaves Gardeners' World after 23 years
Mr Don said: "From myself, Ned, and Longmeadow it’s the final goodbye.
"I first began presenting Gardeners’ World 23 years ago at Berryfields and we came here to Longmeadow 16 years ago and, in that time, things have changed.
"The garden has grown, Nigel has been and gone, and Nellie and Patty, but there has been one constant factor, and that has been the incredible privilege and pleasure of sharing my garden and my gardening life with you here, as well as working with so many superb people.
"So, thank you.
"Thank you for coming on that journey with me and good luck with your own gardens in the future.
"So, for the last time.
"Goodbye."
He first joined Gardeners’ World in 2003, taking over from Alan Titchmarsh at his predecessor’s request.
Although stepping back from the weekly programme, Mr Don will remain part of the BBC’s gardening coverage, including the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show next year.
He will also appear in two winter specials expected to air later this year, including a reflective episode looking back on his time at Longmeadow.
Why is Monty Don leaving Gardeners' World?
Monty Don confirmed he was leaving Gardeners' World after 23 years in September.
He opened up on the decision recently when speaking to Gardeners' World Magazine.
"The commute is delightfully short, but when I go home I take the job with me, seven days a week, 24 hours a day," he said.
He continued: "Then, one day this summer, I woke up and knew it was time to stop.
"Simple as that.
"They say of sportspeople wondering when to retire, 'You just know. Well, I just knew."
Reflecting on his time with the show in a previous statement, Mr Don said: "Throughout that time – and around 700 programmes – I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable, audience.
"That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived."
He also expressed gratitude for the experience of working with the BBC team.
Mr Don said: "I have also always relished the craft of programme making and to do so, week in week out, as part of a superlative BBC team has been a deeply rewarding experience.
"But now is the right time for a change.
"I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues.
"There are more books to write, more programmes to make.
"And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow."
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Who is replacing Monty Don on Gardeners' World?
No replacement for Monty Don has been confirmed by the BBC.
Details of the next series of Gardeners’ World will be announced at a later date.
Mr Don’s final episode is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.
Who would you like to see replace Monty Don on Gardeners' World? Let us know in the comments.
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