Newtownards rose breeder Colin Dickson has expressed his delight after winning top honours at the 60th anniversary of the Belfast International Rose Trials — a fitting tribute to the end of a remarkable career.
Colin’s rose, A Fond Farewell, was awarded Best Floribunda and the coveted City of Belfast Gold Medal for Best Overall Variety at the event held last Friday in Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. The award-winning bloom marks the conclusion of Colin’s professional journey, making the moment especially poignant.
As the last professional rose breeder in Ireland, Colin represents the sixth and final generation of the renowned Dickson Roses family. Founded in 1836, the company began breeding roses in 1879, making it the oldest family of rose breeders in the world.
Colin’s family has long been intertwined with local history. In 1937, gold medals won by Dickson Roses were melted down to create a rose-shaped medallion — now part of the Mayor of Ards and North Down’s ceremonial chain, still worn today.
In recognition of over 45 years of service to horticulture, Colin was awarded an MBE in the Queen Elizabeth II Birthday Honours List in 2022. His father, Pat Dickson, was also honoured with an OBE in 1988 for his contributions to rose breeding.
Though Colin officially retired in late 2024, rose breeding is a years-long process. A Fond Farewell was cross-pollinated in 2018 and introduced as a new cultivar just last year — a graceful conclusion to a legendary career. Another of Colin’s roses, Lady Adrianna, earned second place and a Certificate of Merit at the same trials.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” Colin said of his win. “I do feel A Fond Farewell is one of my best roses after breeding all these years.”
Speaking about Lady Adrianna, he added: “It was commissioned by a Scottish man for his wedding. His wife is Lady Adrianna, and he wanted a rose named in her honour.”
Despite the symbolism of A Fond Farewell, Colin revealed he has one final bloom to unveil:
“I’ve only one more chance next year. It’s called Honey, Bee Mine, and it’s doing quite well.”
Originally not intended for release, the rose won Gold at the Rochfords International Rose Trials in 2023, persuading Colin to introduce it as his true final variety.
As for retirement, Colin plans to keep his green thumb active — even overseas.
“My wife and I love travelling. We have a daughter in the north of Spain, so we’re going over there,” he said. “She’s just moved into a new house with a lovely garden, so I have a few roses to take over to her.”
