ITV gardener Alan Titchmarsh revealed what inspired him to pursue a new career venture after recently adjusting his working schedule
The gardener said he had some concerns about the reception of the book(Image: Getty)
Alan Titchmarsh is embarking on a new literary venture, however it comes with a touch of apprehension. The 76-year-old, celebrated for his horticultural expertise, has also built an impressive portfolio as an author across multiple publications.
For his thirteenth work of fiction, the gardening legend is venturing into unfamiliar territory – the murder mystery genre.
Drawing inspiration from a transatlantic voyage aboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, the novel is scheduled for publication next year.
Revealing how the idea came about, the ITV star explained: “There were about 30 of us, writers and journalists, on board for a literature festival and one of the authors said to me, ‘Alan, you’ve never written crime, come on, it’s time you did’. The seed was sown then.”
Despite his excitement, Alan admitted he had some concerns about how the book will be received. In conversation with Yours Magazine, he said: “I have no doubt holes will be picked in my plot, but I have thoroughly enjoyed writing it. The characters are interesting and there’s a bit of humour. I never write things terribly, terribly serious.”
Alan shares gardening tips and tricks on his YouTube Channel (Image: Getty)
According to Woman’s Weekly, he said he now avoids working on Fridays and occasionally Mondays, making room for a more flexible schedule on his own terms.
Alongside this adjustment, he has established a YouTube channel, offering gardening guidance, practical advice and demonstrations from his own garden. “It’s had millions of views,” he revealed to Yours.
“It’s amazing. I think YouTube’s great strength is that it’s an intimate medium. One person has got you in their hand rather than a screen with a room and a country full of people watching it.”
Introducing his new venture to fans, he explained: “I’ve been a gardener for over 60 years and I can safely say that gardening is one of life’s greatest joys, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Alan opened up about his new writing venture (Image: Jeff Spicer, Getty Images)
“Whether you have green fingers or just starting out with your very first window box, join me in my garden for practical tips, step-by-step guides, and plenty of friendly advice to help you make the most of your garden – large or small.
“So pop the kettle on, pull up a chair (or a trowel!), and join me each week as we celebrate the wonderful world of gardening together,” he continued.
During a recent instalment, Alan offered timely guidance for springtime gardening activities, emphasising this as the perfect period to address lawns damaged by winter moss.
He also noted that keen gardeners should also concentrate on pricking out seedlings, sowing vegetable seeds, planting hardy perennials, and introducing cherry trees into their outdoor spaces.
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh airs Sundays at 9.30am on ITV and ITVX
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