Star comment: Talent is blooming in county
In many ways, Shropshire is an unremarkable county. Its population is comparatively small, at less than 300,000 citizens.
It is one of the most sparsely populated counties in Britain, too, with fewer than 100 people living in each square kilometre.
Compare that with the nation's capital, where almost 5,000 people cram into the same space, or with the West Midlands, where the figure is almost 3,000.
Yet time and again Shropshire demonstrates its ability to punch above its weight on the national and international stage. The county is a centre of excellence for business, for creative industries and for food and farming.
Two Shropshire businesses have demonstrated their world class abilities at the Chelsea Flower Show. David Austin Roses, which is based near Albrighton, has been honoured for an exquisite display by the nation's leading horticulturalists.
The company was founded by David Austin who was awarded the OBE for services to horticulture. He oversees one of the world's largest garden rose breeding programmes and runs the business with his son, David JC Austin.
Mr Austin's contribution to horticulture is truly remarkable. His lifetime's work has been to create new roses in the style of old roses, thus combining the unique charm and fragrance of old roses with the wide colour range and repeat-flowering qualities of modern roses. He was also particularly interested in producing well formed shrubs that make good garden plants.
He has been a remarkable success. During his lifetime, his company has introduced more than 190 rose cultivars, including many in honour of British writers and geographical landmarks.
The Austin family are not alone in enjoying success at this year's Chelsea Flower Show. The Wildegoose Nursery, at Much Wenlock, has also won an award. Established by Mark and Stephanie Roberts, it is passionate about violas and has introduced many new varieties.
The couple had met at RHS Garden Wisley in 2006 as trainees. They dreamed of having a beautiful garden and nursery business of our own. The project started some years later with a move into the walled garden at Millichope Park.
Their success at Chelsea confirms them as one of the UK's leading talents.
It shows Shropshire has remarkable talents that shine at every opportunity.
