Broadcaster, former popstar and Church of England priest Reverend Richard Coles is speaking at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference in January 2027…and tickets go on sale this week.

Richard will take to the podium on Tuesday, January 26 at the Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, bringing his unique perspective on life, leadership, community and connection to delegates.

GCA Chairman and Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, Ben Harrison, who is organising the conference with GCA CEO Peter Burks, explains: “It’s brilliant news that Reverend Richard Coles will be joining us as one of our headline speakers for our 2027 GCA Conference. His ability to combine humour, honesty and thought-provoking perspectives makes him a hugely engaging speaker and we’re confident he will be a real highlight of the conference programme.

“Tickets have gone on sale today, June 22, 2026, via the members’ section on our website and there’s an early bird 10% discount available for those booking before the end of July. So, if you’re keen to hear Richard speak as well as all the other two wonderful headline speakers we’ve already announced – Sir Jason Kenny and Justin King – then get booked up soon, as we expect tickets to sell fast.”

From 1980s pop star to parish priest, broadcaster and now best-selling crime writer, Richard Coles has built a remarkable and diverse career.

He first rose to fame as one half of pop band The Communards, alongside Jimmy Somerville, achieving three UK Top 10 hits, including the 1986 chart-topping single ‘Don’t Leave Me This Way’.

Following the band’s split in 1988, Richard later found a new calling in the Church, studying theology at King’s College London before being ordained in 2005. He went on to serve as a parish priest, most notably in Finedon, Northamptonshire, until his retirement from clerical duties in 2022.

Ben adds: “Richard has had an extraordinary and varied career and his insights into people, communities and communication will resonate strongly with our members.”

Alongside his ministry, Richard has enjoyed a successful broadcasting career, including 12 years as co-presenter of BBC Radio 4’s ‘Saturday Live’, as well as appearances on popular television programmes such as ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, ‘Celebrity MasterChef’ and in 2024 ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’, where he reached the final.

He is also a best-selling author and regular conference speaker, known for addressing topics including mental health, ethics, diversity and inclusion, trust and community.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, concludes: “Richard brings a truly unique mix of experiences that set him apart as a speaker. From music and media to ministry and writing, he has an exceptional ability to connect with audiences and share meaningful insights.

“Our conference is all about engaging our members and Richard’s perspective on people, resilience and community will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. We’ve an exciting and diverse line-up of speakers for 2027 and we look forward to announcing more presenter details soon.”

The GCA’s annual conference regularly attracts hundreds of members from across the UK, offering opportunities to hear from leading speakers, gain industry insight and network with peers.

The leading industry body represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide and, through sharing information and its inspection programme, helps members achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information and to buy tickets, please visit www.gca.org.uk.