The National Trust's garden consultant in the South West, Ian Wright, has been awarded the prestigious Associate of Honour for horticulture in recognition of his service throughout his 35 year career.

The award is given to people who have given distinguished service to the practice of horticulture by the Royal Horticultural Society.

After training with the RHS at Wisley and working at the famous Tresco Abbey gardens on the Isles of Scilly, Ian, who lives in Truro, has spent the last 30 years with the National Trust. He is currently the lead garden consultant for the South West, caring for 50 important gardens and also managing a team of conservation specialists.

Ian led the National Trust’s ground breaking work in helping to prevent the spread and impact of new plant diseases on gardens and plant collections. His guidance, developed in partnership with APHA is still widely used inside and beyond he National Trust and has even been translated into different languages.

After receiving his award at the RHS headquarters in London, Ian, who was head gardener at Trengwainton Penzance from 2000 to 2006, said: "I was surprised and honoured to receive this award. It means so much to me and makes me more resolved to promote horticultural careers which I highly recommend to all. I continue to greatly enjoyed working, visiting and giving something back to horticulture by supporting the people in our great gardens."

Mike Calnan, National Trust head of gardens, said: "I am delighted that the RHS have recognised Ian’s major contribution to British horticulture. He is a fantastic ambassador for the National Trust and a tireless advocate for our gardens and gardeners."