To view this video, please enable JavaScript and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video. Monty Don will leave Gardeners’ World at the end of the current series after more than 20 years as host of the BBC show. The 71-year-old joined Gardeners’ World in 2003 and since 2011 has taken viewers weekly to his own garden, Longmeadow, Herefordshire. Don shared a video announcement with the news, confirming that the current series of Gardeners’ World will be his last. He said: “I started running the program 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the last 16 years here in my own Longmeadow garden. “Throughout this time—and nearly 700 programs—I have had the privilege of sharing my enduring passion for gardens and horticulture with an equally passionate and often equally knowledgeable audience. “This connection with the millions of people not only in Britain but around the world who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always cherished and which I increasingly believe lies at the heart of a life well lived.” In the official video announcing the news, Monty Don said that this episode would be his last (Photo: Oliver Dixon/Shutterstock). The TV presenter said he would be working on more projects with the BBC in the future (Photo: PA) He added: “I’ve also always enjoyed making programs and doing it week after week as part of an excellent BBC team has been a very rewarding experience. But now is the right time for change. “I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as going in new directions. More books need to be written, more programs created. “And of course, I will still be gardening with the dog here in Longmeadow.” BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips said she respected his decision to leave the show, but added: “I’m still very sad to see him go.” She has not commented on who might replace Don as the face of Gardeners’ World after this series. Beebe noted his “calming, calm presence” and “surprisingly engaging” presentation style (Photo: PA) Phillips continued her statement: “Monty is completely unique, a wonderfully attractive television personality with a calming and calm presence who has inspired many with his passion for gardening. “We are a nation full of new gardeners and his advice and guidance has been invaluable to viewers for over 20 years and has certainly helped me expand my knowledge as well as improve the survivability of my plants!” “I would like to personally thank Monty for his honesty and kindness in opening up about his personal struggles and the power of the natural world in improving mental health. “We will really miss him on the show. Monty will be presenting BBC Gardeners’ World in his beautiful Longmeadow Gardens until the end of the year and I look forward to working with him at the BBC on future projects.” Arrow MORE: After 45 years, Only Fools footage that was ‘never seen’ has been discovered Arrow MORE: Trevor Nelson returns to BBC after his life was ‘stolen in the summer’ Arrow MORE: Maryam Moshiri’s Rare Blood Cancer Can Be Easily Missed – Here Are the Early Symptoms Comment now Comments Add Metro as your preferred source on Google Add as preferred source TV Newsletter Sign up and tell us what TV shows you like to watch to receive personalized updates every morning. Post navigation You don’t have to use Ethernet or use Powerline; the cable you need is already in the wall Monty Don retires from Gardeners’ World after more than 20 years