Everyone involved in the Jenny Rose fundraising appeal will be delighted to hear that the target has been reached to ensure that a beautiful Floribunda Rose will be grown and specifically named ‘Jennifer Rose Sell’.
After careful and meticulous research, renowned rose grower, Philip Harkness, in association with David White of Planet Gardening, have been approached for their expertise. As a result, Jenny’s parents have selected the Rose they feel best represents the qualities of their beautiful daughter.
Jenny’s life was tragically taken in July 2019 and since that time the local community has supported the fundraising appeal to such an extent that the initial target was reached and exceeded within five months, just before the country had to lock down due to the pandemic.
Knitted and crocheted roses were on sale in a diverse number of outlets, such was the overwhelming support from the community. From banks to beauty salons, funeral directors to tattoo artists and pubs, clubs, restaurants to shops of all types – not forgetting many other local businesses.
Quiz nights and bingo events were held in local villages with Tesco generously donating food and raffle prizes at several of these events.
Jenny’s parents, Janice and Colin, said: “In whatever way people have supported us we would like to thank each and every person for their kindness and desire to help.
“Our heartfelt thanks also goes to all the amazing people from far and wide who made the roses – giving their time and a little part of themselves in each unique knitted or crocheted Rose.
“We would like to give a massive thank you to the wonderful ladies who had the idea of how to remember our Jenny in such a beautiful way. We continue to be overwhelmed with the compassion shown to us. Jenny would be amazed at it all!”
The amount raised to date will go towards the cultivation and naming of the official Jennifer Rose Sell floribunda – a unique and lasting legacy to Jenny.
The beautiful Jennifer Rose Sell bloom will be launched at either RHS Chelsea Flower Show or the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. The precise timing is impossible to determine with the on-going Covid situation, but it is hoped it will be in 2021, if not, 2022.
After the launch, Jenny’s rose will be available for all to purchase with a percentage of the profits from the sales of this special rose going towards a nominated cause or charity.