The regular panellist has recorded one last episode surrounded by family, friends and colleagues
A special edition of Gardeners’ Question Time featuring a final appearance from longtime panellist Matthew Biggs will air on BBC Radio 4 at 3pm today, Friday 15 May.
Recorded at The Serge Hill Project, the programme is being broadcast during Mental Health Awareness Week and marks an emotional farewell for Biggs, who has been a fixture on the gardening show since 1994.
Matthew, who has been living with cancer since 2020, is now receiving palliative care after his illness entered its final stage. Knowing the recording would be his last contribution to the programme, he chose to make one final appearance alongside his close friends and colleagues from the show.
In the episode, Biggs speaks candidly about his diagnosis, treatment and the impact terminal illness has had on both his mental and physical wellbeing. It is his hope that sharing his experience may offer comfort and guidance to others facing serious illness.
Mohit Bakaya said: “Everyone at Radio 4 is deeply grateful to Matthew for everything he has given to Gardeners’ Question Time over the years. He has been an extraordinary contributor and a true ambassador for Radio 4 in the horticultural world.”
He added: “This programme, recorded at The Serge Hill Project, feels like a fitting and moving way to celebrate his time with the show. Our thoughts and warmest wishes are with Matthew and all his family.”
The edition is chaired by Peter Gibbs and Kathy Clugston, with fellow gardening experts Pippa Greenwood, Christine Walkden and Anne Swithinbank joining the panel.
The programme also includes guest appearances from acclaimed landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith and psychiatrist and psychotherapist Sue Stuart-Smith.
Matthew was joined at the recording by his wife Gill, daughters Chloe and Jessica, and members of the production team who have worked alongside him for more than a decade.
Gardeners’ Question Time is produced by Sony Music Entertainment for BBC Radio 4 and will also be available on BBC Sounds.
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