The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of two new trustees, further strengthening its commitment to supporting education and career development within horticulture.

Christine Burton, Joint Managing Director of Bransford Webbs, and Sarah Want, Associate Director at MorePeople, join the existing board, bringing the total number of trustees to 11. Both appointments bring a wealth of experience, insight, and passion for nurturing the next generation of horticultural talent.

Sarah Want began her career in compliance and management at Waitrose before joining recruitment specialists MorePeople in 2019. Initially expecting to focus on the wider food supply chain, Sarah quickly discovered a passion for horticulture — an industry she admits she knew little about at the time. She has since built a successful career within the sector and now leads a dedicated team of three recruiters working exclusively in horticulture. Alongside her role as Associate Director at MorePeople, Sarah is an active member of both the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) Committee and the British Ornamental Association (BOA) Committee.

Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said: “When I joined horticulture, I never expected it to become such a passion, but the people, energy, and opportunities completely drew me in. Supporting the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation feels like a natural extension of that journey. Opportunity, education, and nurturing the next generation of talent are incredibly important to me. Having entered the industry from outside the traditional horticultural route, I’ve seen first-hand just how powerful access, support, and encouragement can be.”

Christine Burton’s horticultural career began at the age of 17, working weekends at Hurran’s Garden Centre before studying for an HND in Commercial Horticulture at Pershore College. There, she built lasting friendships and professional connections while gaining invaluable hands-on experience through work placements at Burford House Gardens and Cotswold Garden Flowers.

Christine joined The Bransford Webbs Plant Company in 1998 and has progressed steadily through the business over the past 27 years. She was appointed Production Director in 2011 and, in 2023, became Joint Managing Director.

Speaking about her new role, Christine said: “I am so pleased and proud to be asked to join the Foundation. I’m very much looking forward to supporting the team and helping to inspire the next generation to love plants and enjoy a rewarding career in horticulture, just as I have.”

Chair of Trustees, Stuart Lowen, welcomed the appointments, saying:“We are absolutely delighted to appoint two such outstanding new trustees to join our highly experienced board. Christine and Sarah both hold influential roles within the horticultural industry, and their enthusiasm, experience, and commitment to encouraging more people into horticulture will be a tremendous asset to the Foundation and its work.”