Release Date

28^th February 2006

FELI FERNANDEZ WINS NUFFIELD SCHOLARSHIP TO LOOK AT ALTERNATIVES TO DIVERSIFY THE UK FRUIT INDUSTRY

Feli Fernandez has been awarded a Nuffield Farming Scholarship for 2006, funded by the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers.  Feli was short-listed for interview at the London headquarters of the Nuffield Foundation; she faced the interview board last month and was selected as one of twenty or so recipients of an award for this year.  EMR's Science Director, Mike Solomon said "This is an exciting opportunity to promote UK horticulture whilst furthering our knowledge of alternative fruit crops".

 Feli will investigate commercial overseas production of some fruit species not currently part of UK horticulture, but with potential to be grown here.  The scholarship which started 17^th February with a small European briefing tour, will allow her to travel for a total of eight weeks or so; she plans to visit Eastern Europe, North America and Japan and possibly some more Mediterranean destinations to identify fruit species with potential for UK growers. "As a breeder, I'll be particularly interested in germplasm sources to allow varieties and species trialling and, if appropriate, to initiate UK breeding programmes", she says.

 ***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1.      East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

2.   Established in 1947 the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust is dedicated to developing leadership in Farming and Rural Industries and committed to the development of Farming, Horticulture, the Food Chain and every aspect of rural land use. For more information about the scholarships see www.nuffieldscholar.org

For further information please contact:

Feli Fernandez,                                                 Dr Mike Solomon        
Molecular Geneticist & Plant Breeder               Science Director
Tel: 01732 523739 (DD)                                  Tel: 01732 523712 (DD)
E-mail: feli.fernandez@emr.ac.uk                      mike.solomon@emr.ac.uk

East Malling Research
New Road
East Malling
Kent ME19 6BJ
Tel: 01732 843833
Fax: 01732 849067

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For more information please contact Penny Greeves on Tel: 01732 523723, Fax: 01732 849067; E-mail: penny.greeves@emr.ac.uk.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

For further information please contact:
Ursula Twomey, PR and Marketing Manager
Tel: 01732 523723
Fax: 01732 849067
Email: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk
www.eastmallingresearch.com

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13 April 2006

DIARY DATE
 BRADBOURNE HOUSE AND GARDENS OPEN DAY
23 APRIL 2006

Bradbourne House and, for the 26^th successive year, its gardens, including the Hatton Fruit Garden, at East Malling in Kent will be open to the public on Sunday, 23 April from 2-5pm in support of the National Gardens Scheme.

The Hatton Fruit Garden consists of demonstration fruit tree plantings of particular interest to amateurs.  Staff from East Malling Research will show how the fruit trees have been grown, trained and pruned to produce cordons and espaliers and the more unusual goblets, pyramids, fans, arches, crowns, le bateau and arcure forms.

Bradbourne House is a privately owned, Grade 1 listed, Tudor period house with fine rooms, halls, staircases and a unique collection of watercolours and portraits. In addition, there will be displays by scientists from East Malling Research plus music and refreshments.

Admission £3.00.  Children (under 16) free.  Entrance on New Road, East Malling, Kent off the A20.

*****ENDS*****

Notes for Editors:

East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

For further information please contact:

Penny Greeves, Information Officer, East Malling Research
Tel: 01732 523723
Fax: 01732 849067
E-mail: penny.greeves@emr.ac.uk

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26 April 2006

Winning Award for ‘Malling’ Autumn Bliss

Two East Malling Research scientists, Elizabeth Keep (now retired) and Vicky Knight have won an outstanding fruit cultivar award from the American Society of Horticultural Science for their raspberry cultivar ‘Malling’ Autumn Bliss. The award for genetic improvement in fruit is inscribed ‘Malling’ Autumn Bliss Raspberry bred by Elizabeth Keep and developed by Victoria Knight, East Malling

It is the first time that this award has been presented for a fruit cultivar bred in the UK. It has previously been presented for North American apple, soft fruit, citrus, grape and nut cultivars.

Autumn Bliss was released twenty years ago and was rapidly taken up by raspberry growers and amateur gardeners. Its fruiting season overlaps with late ripening summer fruiting varieties and this meant that raspberries could be picked continuously from late June to the first frosts in autumn for the first time. The release of Autumn Bliss meant that primocane fruiting raspberry production became a commercial reality in the UK. Autumn Bliss continues to be a great success in the gardening community who appreciate its good-sized fruit, excellent flavour and reliable, high yields produced over a long cropping period.

The variety has been grown all over the world and raspberry breeders in many other countries as far apart as Australia and Canada have found it to be outstanding as a parent. Autumn Bliss has a far reaching family; it is a parent to ten varieties and a grand- or great-grandparent to at least seven others.

Autumn Bliss is no stranger to attention, having been recognised by the celebrity chef, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall in an autumn dish that celebrates this particular raspberry. It was also named as one of the top 200 plants for 200 years in the Royal Horticultural Society Bicentenary list published in 2004, the only soft fruit entry!

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

East Malling Research, New Road, East Malling, Kent ME19 6BJ

For further information please contact:

Chantelle Jay,                                                   Vicky Knight
Communications Office                                     Research Leader
Tel : 01732 523751 Fax : 01732 849067         Tel : 01732 523745 Fax : 01732 849067
E-mail : chantelle.jay@emr.ac.uk                      E-mail: vicky.knight@emr.ac.uk

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8 May 2006

New Horticultural Bursary

A new award, the "Kent Horticultural Bursary", has just been announced. This award, for up to £1,000, is open to individuals or groups with a genuine interest in horticulture. The award can be for a study tour, project or piece of research work in any area of horticulture.

The Kent Horticultural Bursary has developed out of the Kent Nursery Stock Discussion Group, which has supported professional training in the nursery industry for over 30 years and has provided a social forum to share ideas and information. East Malling Research has hosted the group since its outset. The award winner will present a report at the Annual Meeting of the Kent Horticultural Bursary, which is run and supported by leading members of the horticultural community.

Colin Gutteridge, Chief Executive of East Malling Research a leading horticultural R&D organisation, says "The new bursary will make a valuable contribution to encouraging new ideas and therefore the potential future development of the industry".

Further information and application forms for the bursary are available on the website www.kenthb.org.uk. Applications must include a fully planned and costed proposal and be received by 5pm on 1^st September 2006. For any additional queries please email enquiries@kenthb.org.uk.

 ***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:
1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

2. The Kent Horticultural Bursary can trace its links back over 30 years to when the Kent Nursery Stock Training Group was founded. A number of local nurseries recognised the need for professional training and a social forum. Monthly meetings developed into a Discussion Group giving members a chance to share ideas and information to grow their businesses. Recently, it was decided that moneys built up in reserves should be put to a good use in the horticultural field. The Kent Horticultural Bursary was formed to distribute these funds to worthwhile horticultural projects. It is run and supported by leading members of the horticultural community with the aim to help individuals or groups pursue relevant projects.

www.kenthb.org.uk

For further information please contact:

1) Dr Olga Grant
East Malling Research
New Road
East Malling
Kent ME19 6BJ

Tel: 01732 843833
Fax: 01732 849067
E-mail: olga.grant@emr.ac.uk                          

2) Chris Lane (Chairman)
The Granary
Callaways Lane
Newington
Sittingbourne
Kent ME9 7LU

Tel: 01795-843098
E-mail: Chris.Lane@care4free.net

3) Garry Norris
Coolings Nurseries Ltd
Ruchmore Hill
Knockholt
Sevenoaks
TN14 7NN

Tel: 01959 532269
E-mail: garry@coolings.co.uk

 *****ENDS***** 
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12 May 2006

 East Malling Strawberry Researcher Honoured

 David Simpson, head of strawberry breeding at East Malling Research (EMR), has been awarded the Jones-Bateman Cup by the Royal Horticultural Society. The award is made triennially for “original research in fruit culture”. David won the award in recognition of his success in bringing many new varieties into the strawberry-growing world. David was presented with the cup by the RHS President, Sir Richard Carew Pole at the Society’s London Flower Show. For the next three years it will be on display at East Malling Research.

 David and his team at EMR develop new varieties to suit both commercial and amateur growers. This is strengthened by collaborations with colleagues at East Malling Research and with breeders internationally. The EMR breeding programme has released 20 varieties between 1988 and 2005, of which 18 are still available for growers. These include the widely grown mainstream varieties Florence and Flamenco and two exciting new everbearers – Malling Pearl and Malling Opal. Other varieties have been aimed at smaller niche markets: Judibell, released last year, has an exceptionally late season, and good eating quality making it ideal for the pick-your-own market, while Marshmello, with its large, sweet, juicy berries, is very popular with amateur gardeners. EMR is leading the way in genetic research, which will direct strawberry breeding over the next 10 years.

 ***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:
1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture.

www.eastmallingresearch.com

East Malling Research, New Road, East Malling, Kent ME19 6BJ

For further information please contact:

Chantelle Jay                                                    David Simpson
Communications Office                                     Research Leader

Tel : 01732 523751 Fax : 01732 849067         Tel : 01732 843833 Fax : 01732 849067
E-mail : chantelle.jay@emr.ac.uk                      E-mail: david.simpson@emr.ac.uk

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Insects Alive! Investigating live insects and their relatives...
Date: Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 June 2006
Time: 24 June 10.30am – 3.30pm, 25 June 11am-4pm
Maidstone Museum, St Faith's Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1LH

Insects Alive is a weekend of activities celebrating National Insect Week and organised by the Maidstone Museum and East Malling Research.

The activities at the Maidstone Museum will give families the chance to become researchers for the day and delve into the world of garden insects. Come and use a microscope to see the smallest of bugs, like greenfly, and hunt for live specimens in Brenchley gardens! Children can collect small mini-beasts from the trail in the garden, and we'll help you to investigate them. Books, keys and activity sheets will all be provided; insect hand puppets and models will give you an extra clue!

If you're more interested in giant mini-beasts, then giant millipedes, hissing cockroaches and a tarantula will be on show. There will also be an opportunity to handle an insect at set times throughout the day. Come and see some photos of insects up close!

Researchers and the museum learning team will chat about what they do, why they do it and how that relates to horticulture and gardening.

This is the first time that both live insects and the collections in the museum have been used together for people to explore.

National Insect Week aims to “Create a Buzz about Insects” and will be launched by BBC's Springwatch presenter Kate Humble in the Natural History Museum's Wildlife Garden in London on 19 June.

This event is being co-ordinated by the Dr Ed Jarzembowski and Hayley Stephens at the Maidstone Museum and Dr Chantelle Jay at East Malling Research and is funded by the BBSRC.

 ***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

2. Maidstone Museum. In the centre of Maidstone - Kent's County Town - stands this exceptional Museum. Each gallery will fascinate and surprise; with a wealth of exhibits and objects to see and enjoy. Don't forget entry to our Museum is Free!

Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 17.15pm, Sunday  11.00am - 16.00pm, Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

3. The Royal Entomological Society’s National Insect Week  will once again engage with children and adults, scientists, teachers and nature lovers around the UK, raising awareness of insects, their diversity and the crucial role they play in our everyday lives. www.nationalinsectweek.co.uk

 4. The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) is the UK’s principal funder of basic and strategic biological research. www.bbsrc.ac.uk

For further information please contact:

1) Chantelle Jay                                                        
East Malling Research,
New Road,
East Malling,
Kent, ME19 6BJ
Tel: 01732 843833
Fax: 01732 849067
E-mail: chantelle.jay@emr.ac.uk                      

2) Hayley Stephens
Maidstone Museum& Bentliff Art Gallery,
St Faiths Street,
Maidstone,
Kent, ME14 1LH
Telephone: 01622 602838
E-mail: HayleyStephens@maidstone.gov.uk

3) Ed Jarzembowski
Maidstone Museum& Bentliff Art Gallery,
St Faith's Street,
Maidstone,
Kent, ME14 1LH
Telephone: 01622 602838
E-mail: Edjarzembowski@maidstone.gov.uk

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4 September 2006

DR CHRIS ATKINSON APPOINTED AS HEAD OF SCIENCE FOR EAST MALLING RESEARCH

Dr Chris Atkinson has been appointed ‘Head of Science’ for East Malling Research (EMR) with effect from 4 September 2006, as Dr Mike Solomon steps down from the role.  

As Head of Science, Chris will shape and lead the scientific resources of EMR to ensure the delivery of high quality strategic and applied research and the relevance of EMRs science to its customers.

Chris is a familiar figure within the UK horticulture industry having worked on hardy nursery stock, tree and soft fruit. He is an internationally respected plant physiologist who has specialised in how environment influences plant growth and development. In recent years he has successfully  progressed research on conservation of water and affects of climate change, how to add value to plants through the enhancement of health promoting phytochemicals and the development of novel orchard management systems.

Following a degree in Applied Biology from London University in 1979, Chris received his PhD in environmental plant physiology from University of Wales, Bangor, in 1982. Subsequently he has had university positions in Forestry and air pollution and has worked in California and Virginia, as well as, Lancaster University before joining the scientific team at East Malling (then part of Horticulture Research International) in 1992.  He is married and has 3 daughters.  When not presenting the results of his work or developing new ideas, Chris can be found keeping fit and escaping to the wilds of the Peak District and Lakeland. For his work in the area of horticultural plant physiology, Chris regularly receives invitations to deliver key presentations at international conferences and has extensive editorial duties for international plant science journals.

According to Dr Colin Gutteridge, CEO for EMR “as an excellent internationally renowned scientist and proven manager, I am confident that Chris will drive forward the science at EMR in both our current and new areas of R&D.”

Chris Atkinson said “I am excited and delighted to be taking over this role and I look forward to continuing and developing EMR’s abilities to support UK horticulture.”

Digital photograph of Dr Chris Atkinson available on request.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

For further information please contact:

Dr Chris Atkinson (Monday – Wednesday)
Tel: 01732 523729
Email: chris.atkinson@emr.ac.uk

Dr Ursula Twomey, Communications Manager – (Mondays and Tuesdays only by phone. Available every working day by e-mail)
Tel: 01732 523723
Email: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

Dr Chantelle Jay, Communications Officer – (Thursdays and Fridays)
Tel: 01732 523751
Email: chantelle.jay@emr.ac.uk

EMR General Tel: 01732 843833
EMR Fax: 01732 849067

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19 September 2006

GUIDE TO WOODLAND CREATION FOR WILDLIFE, LAUNCHED

The project was part of a larger Anglo-French collaboration involving East Malling Research, Wildlife Landscapes, the Highways Agency, the Woodland Trust and East Sussex County Council. Similar work conducted by the Centre Regionale de la Propriété Forestière in northern France was also outlined at the event.

Dr Neil Hipps of East Malling Research stated ‘following ecological principles, often with low cost, it should be possible to greatly increase the benefit of new woodlands for wildlife. This guide will help people to significantly improve the biodiversity value of new woodlands in our region.’

The launch was attended by people with a broad range of professional interests in the topic, including woodland owners, highway planners, landscape architects, foresters, conservation organisations, nurseries, local authorities and developers.

The guide may be downloaded from the East Malling Research website www.eastmallingresearch.com and a limited number of hard copies are available directly with a charge of £4 to cover postage and packaging.

***ENDS***

Digital images available on request from ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture and forestry industries. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com
2. Wildlife Landscapes is a Kent based consultancy specialising in wildlife surveys and habitat creation.
3. Centre Regionale de la Propriété Forestière (CRPF) provide technical advice to private forest owners in France and are responsible for the implementation of National Forest policy.
4. This project was part funded by the EU through Franco-British Intereg IIIa programme, the Highways Agency and the Woodland Trust.
5. Images available:

1. White Admiral butterfly which favours shady woodland rides but visits sunny glades to nectar.
2. A shady north east-south west ride in Ham Street Woods, Kent which supports several woodland butterflies.
3. “Woodland Creation for Wildlife” book.
4. Delegates from the UK and France who attended the launch of “Woodland Creation for Wildlife”.
5. Images from the Victory Wood visit, available from late afternoon 22/9/06

For further information please contact:

Dr Neil Hipps
Tel: 01732 523728
E-mail: neil.hipps@emr.ac.uk

Dr Ursula Twomey (Monday-Tuesday, phone and e-mail; Wednesday-Friday, e-mail only).
Tel: 01732 523723
E-mail: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

General Tel: 01732 843833
Fax: 01732 849067
www.eastmallingresearch.com

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3 October 2006

DR OLIVER DOUBLEDAY APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD FOR EAST MALLING RESEARCH

Dr Oliver Doubleday has been appointed Chairman of the Board for East Malling Research (EMR) with effect from 2 October, following the tenure of EMR’s first Chairman, Mr Hugh Lowe.  

A research biologist by training, he joined the management of the family’s 1600 ha estate in Kent, of which he is now Managing Director, in 1981.  The farming activities include 125 ha of top fruit plus arable and sheep. He also helps to manage a 100 ha rubber plantation in Brazil, which he planted in 1990. Dr Doubleday thus has a unique combination of first hand scientific and horticultural knowledge, making him a familiar figure among both communities.

The organisations with which he has been involved include the Apple & Pear Research Council, Brogdale Horticultural Trust, Silsoe Research Institute, the NFU and he contributed to the EU Consultative Forum on The Environment and Sustainable Development. For a detailed list, see editor’s notes below.

Dr Colin Gutteridge, CEO for EMR, said that “It’s very good news for EMR that Oliver has agreed to take on this role. I am looking forward to working with him to develop EMR’s work for the horticulture industry. I also wish to extend my thanks to Hugh for his time and commitment to EMR, helping to steer us through privatisation and our first 30 months of independence.”

According to Dr Doubleday “EMR has an unrivalled reputation in its field of horticultural research.  The challenge will be to maintain its unique research capabilities at a time when funding will be under pressure and government research priorities are changing.  I look forward to working with Colin Gutteridge and his team in addressing this challenge.  I would also like to pay tribute to Hugh Lowe for his much valued contribution.”

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1.         East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

 2.         Mr Hugh Lowe is Chairman of Hugh Lowe Farms and a member of the NFU Horticulture Board.

 3.          Dr Oliver Doubleday

2005-               Local Director for Kent of the NFU Mutual Insurance Company

2003-               Trustee of Brogdale Horticultural Trust

2000-2006       Trustee of Silsoe Research Institute

1994-2006       Director of SCATS (latterly Grainfarmers plc)

1997-2002       Adviser to a private agricultural investor involved in setting up structures, acquiring farms and directing their subsequent management. Active in the USA (Kansas and California), New Zealand and elsewhere

1997-2000       Member of the Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council’s Strategy Board

1997-2001       Member of the EU Commission’s Consultative Forum on The Environment and Sustainable Development

1994-1998       Chairman of NFU’s Parliamentary Land Use and Environment Committee

1990-1997       Member of the Apple & Pear Research Council, (Vice-Chairman 1996-1997)                                     

1994-1996       Member of the management committee of Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council’s Agricultural Systems Directorate

1995                Participant in a US Information Agency Study Tour "Agricultural Issues in the United States"     

1994-1995       Member of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan Steering Group

1993-1995       Member of the Advisory Committee on Business and the environment  

For further information please contact:

Dr Colin Gutteridge, CEO for EMR
Tel: 01732 523710       Email: colin.gutteridge@emr.ac.uk

Communications Office
Tel: 01732 843833       Email: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk         

EMR Fax: 01732 849067

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                                                                                          10 October 2006

 FROM REDUCING LABOUR COSTS TO USING SEX AS A WEAPON
East Malling Research seminars at the National Fruit Show 2006

Scientists from East Malling Research (EMR) hope to encourage wider debate during a seminar session for attendees at the 2006 National Fruit Show where they will provide up-dates on a diverse range of projects - Thursday 19 October, 10.30am Astor Pavilion.

With rising wage bills and an annual scramble to employ the most efficient pruners, Dr Chris Atkinson, Head of Science for EMR, will discuss a project to develop innovative hedgerow orchard systems, which utilise the principles of mechanical pruning/thinning to reduce labour costs, allow for precise delivery of nutrients and water and optimise fruit quality.

Rosaceous fruit crops, which include pome, stone and soft fruits, are economically important in many countries in the world and most crops are traded as world commodities. Dr Kate Evans will review a desktop study which investigated the current effort in rosaceous fruit breeding programmes worldwide.

Apple leaf midge is a widespread and abundant pest with no satisfactory control measures. It is particularly damaging in nurseries and newly planted orchards. Jerry Cross will discuss a project that is identifying a sex pheromone and developing traps for the midge, to allow growers to schedule application of sprays.

UK consumers want perfect apples of Cox, Gala and Bramley which are free of pesticide residues.  Angela Berrie will show how to develop an integrated pest and disease management system to produce such apples profitably and sustainably.

The session will be Chaired by Dr Colin Gutteridge, Chief Executive Officer for East Malling Research.

 ***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com
2. The East Malling Research stand at the National Fruit Show is number V7 and will show posters based on the seminar presentations.

For further information please contact:
Communications Office
Tel: 01732 523723
Fax: 01732 849067
Email: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk  Monday-Tuesday
Email: chantelle.jay@emr.ac.uk Wednesday-Friday

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Interested EMRA Members, non-Members and the press are welcome to attend at a cost of £10 for Members of EMRA, or £20 for non-Members.   Morning coffee, a buffet lunch and tea in the afternoon will be provided.

For more information or to book a place, please contact:
Miss Jean Hodges, Tel: 01732 523724; E-mail: jean.hodges@emr.ac.uk

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:
East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

For further information please contact:
Communications Office
Tel: 01732 523723
Fax: 01732 849067
Email: penny.greeves@emr.ac.uk
www.eastmallingresearch.com

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***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. Interested EMRA Members and non-Members of EMRA and the press are welcome to attend at a cost of £10 for Members of EMRA, or £20 for non-Members.   Morning coffee, a buffet lunch and tea in the afternoon will be provided.

2. For more information or to book a place, please contact: Miss Jean Hodges, Tel: 01732 523724, E-mail jean.hodges@emr.ac.uk

3. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the perennial horticulture industry. EMR builds on 90 years of experience of successfully transferring information that has transformed horticulture. www.eastmallingresearch.com

For further information please contact:
Communications Office
Tel: 01732 523723
Fax: 01732 849067
Email: penny.greeves@emr.ac.uk
www.eastmallingresearch.com

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4 December 2006

 DR MIKE SOLOMON RETIRES FROM EAST MALLING RESEARCH

After a career spanning 36 years at East Malling, Dr Mike Solomon, Science Director and world-respected entomologist, retired on 1 December 2006.   

Mike pioneered the development of biological control and integrated pest management (IPM) programmes for apple and pear orchards.  His work on the biocontrol of spider mite and rust mite by exploiting predatory mites, led to the integrated mite management system that was universally taken up by apple growers in the UK. 

He and his team developed laboratory techniques for detecting prey molecules within the gut of individual field-collected predatory insects and mites; this enabled an analysis of predator feeding patterns that provided a rational basis for designing IPM systems exploiting the action of predators. Mike and his team also pioneered the development of computer-based pest forecasting systems that could be exploited by growers themselves. 

Mike has supervised a series of PhD students based at East Malling and linked with various universities.  He has been acclaimed for his contribution to science, horticulture and his impact on the UK fruit industry, receiving prestigious awards from both the RHS and Worshipful Company of Fruiterers (see Editor’s Notes). 

As an authority on his subject area, Mike has refereed grant proposals for UK and international funding bodies, been co-editor of an international journal and a member of international committees and working groups.  He regularly receives invitations to deliver key lectures at international conferences and is regularly an external examiner for PhD and MSc students at Universities in the UK, Europe and as far afield as Australia.
 

His career at East Malling culminated as Science Director, having successfully helped guide EMR through privatisation in 2004.

Mr Hugh Lowe, former Chairman of EMR’s Board of Directors said "With the help of his colleagues, Dr Mike Solomon managed the transfer of East Malling to becoming an independent research organisation, with calm efficiency and a minimum of interruption of the research in progress at the time. He could be relied upon to cope with whatever confronted him, and it was a privilege and a pleasure to have had the opportunity of working with him."

According to Dr Colin Gutteridge, CEO for EMR “Mike Solomon has made a major contribution to horticultural science throughout his career and in recent years, shouldered the management burden of the break up of HRI and creation of EMR. Along the way he has made many friends and we will miss his cheerful demeanour and insightful perspective. We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement."
 

On his retirement, Mike hopes to do more of the outdoor activities he enjoys, including mountain walking, but he will also retain a part-time involvement with EMR in a consultancy role.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1.   Digital photographs of Mike Solomon available on request from the Communications Office

2.   East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the food chain and other sectors of the land-based industry. EMR builds on 90 years experience of successfully delivering cutting-edge research and development. www.eastmallingresearch.com

3.   Horticulture Research International (HRI) was a non-Departmental public body reporting to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, tasked with carrying out horticultural R&D and knowledge transfer. It ceased to exist in April 2004. Its constituent parts formed the successor organisations East Malling Research and Warwick HRI.

Resumé for Dr Mike Solomon

2005        Received the Royal Horticultural Society’s ‘Veitch Memorial Medal’ for outstanding contribution to the advancement of the science and practice of horticulture; for the impact of work on horticultural practice and the environment, in particular the reduction in chemical inputs

 2004      Head of Science for East Malling Research

 2002      Head of Site for Horticulture Research International East Malling

2000     Received the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers’ ‘Environmental Award’ for Crop Protection in Horticulture;  also the ‘Overall Winner’s Award’ covering all aspects of Horticulture

1999      Leader of the Horticulture Research International cross-site Entomology team

1991     Awarded the ‘Jones-Bateman Cup’ by the Royal Horticultural Society (a silver-gilt cup awarded triennially for research in fruit crops)

1991      Co-Editor Biocontrol Science & Technology

1987      Head of East Malling Entomology Department

1973      PhD (University of London – Imperial College)

1970      Employed as a research entomologist by East Malling Research Station

1967      MSc (Applied Entomology), DIC (University of London – Imperial College)

1966      BSc Zoology (University of Bristol)

For further information please contact:

Communications Office
Tel: 01732 523723; Fax: 01732 849067; Email: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

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18 December 2006

FIRST SUCCESSFUL COMMERCIAL-SCALE PRODUCTION OF QUALITY POINSETTIAS USING A REDUCED INPUT TECHNIQUE

A technique called “regulated deficit irrigation” (RDI) to control growth of poinsettia has added benefits in reducing production costs and environmental impacts and has been realised on a commercial scale for the first time by researchers at East Malling Research. 

Application of RDI irrigation at Staplehurst Nurseries, Kent allowed the production of high quality, glasshouse grown plants whilst significantly reducing water use and reliance on plant growth regulator (PGR) applications.  RDI plants received only one essential spray at the start of the season.  Those under conventional production received more, with increases in both the spray frequency and the concentrations of PGRs required due to the prevailing weather conditions.

Economic benefits of RDI are therefore achieved through the reduced outlay for PGR’s and reduction in the considerable labour costs associated with PGR spray and plant grading programmes.  Additionally, environmental risk is reduced, as release of PGR’s into the atmosphere or freshwater supplies can lead to habitat degradation and possible health concerns.

The commercial poinsettia crop at Staplehurst Nurseries is irrigated by ebb and flow. Using this technique, RDI was applied only during the critical growth period, to restrict growth without any detrimental effects on other aspects of product quality such as flowering, bract colour and size.  Irrigation was scheduled according to plant evapotranspiration (ETP) levels (as measured on Skye Evaposensor) and soil moisture conditions. At simulated market date, RDI plants were within retailer’s size specifications and there was no loss of quality compared to plants that had been well-watered and sprayed routinely with PGRs. 

Detailed experiments are currently underway to identify any effects of RDI on product quality and shelf-life.

At the end of this years experiment, the poinsettias were sold to staff on site at East Malling raising £135.  Proceeds will be donated to the Heart of Kent Hospice.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the food chain and other sectors of the land-based industry. EMR builds on 90 years experience of successfully delivering cutting edge research and development. www.eastmallingresearch.com

2.      This work has been funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).  Defra project code HH3609TX. www.defra.org.uk

3. Commercial trialling was carried out at Staplehurst Nurseries, Clapper Lane, Staplehurst, Kent TN12 0JT. Marcel.franke@btinternet.com.

4. Poinsettia – (Euphorbia pulcherrima) was named after Colonel Joel Roberts Poinsett of the US army and the first US Ambassador to Mexico (1825-9). He grew them himself and sent some back to botanical gardens in the USA. "Pulcherrima" means "most beautiful". It originated in Mexico and Central America and in the wild, these plants are bare-branched small trees. Most people know traditional red poinsettias at Christmas, but they also come in peach, pink, lemon, cream, and with white and gold-splashed leaves.

For further information please contact:

Phillippa Dodds

Tel: 01732 523731

E-mail: phillippa.dodds@emr.ac.uk

Communications Group

Tel: 01732 523723

Fax: 01732 849067

E-mail: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

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18 December 2006

A MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY POINSETTIA FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS STOCKING

East Malling Research has made an exciting breakthrough in developing a more environmentally friendly way of producing one of the Nation’s favourite Christmas time house plants, the Poinsettia.

A technique called “regulated deficit irrigation” (RDI) to control growth of poinsettia during production, has benefits over current nursery practices in reducing production costs and environmental impacts.  It has been applied on a commercial scale for the first time by researchers at East Malling Research.

A commercial poinsettia crop at Staplehurst Nurseries was irrigated using a technique called ‘ebb and flow’. Using this technique, RDI treatment was applied only during the critical growth period, to restrict growth without any detrimental effects on other aspects of poinsettia quality such as flowering, bract colour and size. At simulated market date, RDI plants were within retailer’s size specifications and there was no loss of quality compared to plants that had been well-watered and sprayed routinely. 

Therefore, application of RDI irrigation at Staplehurst Nurseries, Kent allowed the production of high quality plants whilst significantly reducing water use and reliance on chemical plant growth regulator (PGR) applications (PGRs help the nurseryman to reduce the height of plants which would otherwise become too leggy). 

Environmental risk is reduced as release of PGR’s into the atmosphere or freshwater supplies can lead to habitat degradation and possible health concerns.  Furthermore, reduction in use of water is important with respect to the drought experienced this year and likely in the future.  Additionally, there are economic benefits of RDI for the nurseryman through the reduced costs for PGR’s and reduction in the considerable labour requirements associated with PGR spray and plant grading programmes.

At the end of this years experiment, the poinsettias were sold to staff on site at East Malling raising £135.  Proceeds will be donated to the Heart of Kent Hospice.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the food chain and other sectors of the land-based industry. EMR builds on 90 years experience of successfully delivering cutting edge research and development. www.eastmallingresearch.com

1. 2.   This work has been funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).  Defra project code HH3609TX. www.defra.org.uk

3. Commercial trialling was carried out at Staplehurst Nurseries, Clapper Lane, Staplehurst, Kent TN12 0JT. Marcel.franke@btinternet.com.

4. Poinsettia – (Euphorbia pulcherrima) was named after Colonel Joel Roberts Poinsett of the US army and the first US Ambassador to Mexico (1825-9). He grew them himself and sent some back to botanical gardens in the USA. "Pulcherrima" means "most beautiful". It originated in Mexico and Central America and in the wild, these plants are bare-branched small trees. Most people know traditional red poinsettias at Christmas, but they also come in peach, pink, lemon, cream, and with white and gold-splashed leaves.

5. Bract - Bracts of Poinsettia are the brightly coloured leaf-like structures, taking over the role of attracting pollinating insects to the flowers, whose own petals are small.

For further information please contact:

Phillippa Dodds

Tel: 01732 523731

E-mail: phillippa.dodds@emr.ac.uk

Communications Group

Tel: 01732 523723; Fax: 01732 849067

E-mail: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

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20 December 2006

EMR HOSTS EUROPEAN COORDINATION MEETING FOR FINGERPRINTING FRUIT COLLECTIONS

Delegates from eleven countries attended a workshop hosted by East Malling Research (EMR) on December 7^th and 8^th for the European Collaborative Programme for Crop Genetic Resources (ECPGR).

The meeting aimed to reach European-wide consensus on the use of DNA markers called microsatellites to effectively fingerprint and characterise fruit collections. East Malling Research is taking the lead in helping to standardise this technology for use with fruits including apple, pear and cherry as well as peach, almond and apricot.

Currently, laboratories around Europe use different microsatellites and different methods for fingerprinting the fruit varieties in their collections making comparisons of results between laboratories extremely difficult. Delegates at the workshop discussed and made recommendations for reference cultivars and scoring systems and other technical aspects like primer sets, labelling and spreadsheet uniformity.

By verifying collections with the same set of microsatellites, this technology could be used to detect varieties that have been duplicated or incorrectly named in collections. Having a verified reference collection would be useful to breeders and to nurseries to aid trueness-to-type, providing an invaluable resource in disputes over propagation material mix-ups. It is proposed that there would be a central database held by the European Crop Databases which is freely accessible. This is of particular interest to organisations like ECPGR which is ultimately interested in the conservation of fruit and other plants for use in research and breeding. 

Whilst the technology is not new, this co-ordination of application is being driven forward and led by fruit research organisations like EMR. The same principles could be applied to other crops such as woody ornamentals and potatoes.

As the microsatellites and reference cultivars chosen in this European project include some used by collections in the USA, this could make them useful for application in laboratories world-wide, particularly for apple and pear.

The workshop was organised by EMR’s Ken Tobutt and Kate Evans.  Ken is Chairman of the ECPGR Fruit Network and the Prunus Working Group.

***ENDS***

Notes for Editors:

1. East Malling Research (EMR) is an independent provider of research and consultancy serving the food chain and other sectors of the land-based industry. EMR builds on 90 years experience of successfully delivering cutting edge research and development. www.eastmallingresearch.com

2. Markers are variant forms of DNA that can be detected in the laboratory.

3. Microsatellites are a particular type of marker that is amenable to multiplexing, a process whereby several markers can be scored simultaneously. Markers linked with genes controlling agronomic traits are particularly useful as they allow marker-assisted selection – seedlings likely to have desirable characteristics can be selected soon after germination on the basis of DNA analysis.

For further information please contact:

Dr Kate Evans                                                            Ken Tobutt

Tel: 01732 523738                                                    Tel: 01732 523735

E-mail: kate.evans@emr.ac.uk                                    E-mail: ken.tobutt@emr.ac.uk

Communications Group

Tel: 01732 523723

Fax: 01732 849067

E-mail: ursula.twomey@emr.ac.uk

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