Alan Titchmarsh explained he had shed a few tears after being acknowledged in the New Year’s Honours List.
The broadcaster, 75, has been a staple on British TV for decades, having hosted fan-favourite Gardeners’ World on the BBC from 1996 to 2002.
The TV gardener was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 list.
He admitted to having had a “teary moment” with his wife Alison and their two daughters when he revealed the happy news to them.
“I’ve been an MBE for 25 years, so I kind of thought that was… I’ve been very happy with that,” he commented.
“[I’m] thrilled to bits, surprised, but honoured that I should be thought worth a CBE, flattered beyond belief,” he continued to PA.
King Charles speaks with speaks with English gardener Alan Titchmarsh in 2023
Getty
Since fronting the gardening show, Titchmarsh went on to host a series of other programmes celebrating horticulture.
He has also presented popular weekly shows such as Love Your Garden, Love Your Friday and Love Your Weekend, as well as Alan Titchmarsh’s Garden Secrets and Countryfile.
The presenter recalled further details of his emotional response to the news as he added: “There was the odd tear.”
“My wife was in the bathroom when I got the letter,” he told Hello!
“So I went in there and said ‘I’ve had this letter from the Cabinet Office.’ And when I realized it wasn’t a summons, it was quite a thrill.”
Titchmarsh was given his first honour in 2000 when he was made an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) and told the publication he was “thrilled to bits” with the new recognition.
The broadcaster also has a strong social media following, where he shares occasional updates with fans.
Back in November, he sparked an online frenzy after introducing a new member of his ITV show.
he gardener shared a snap of golden retriever-Labrador cross, Titch, explaining the puppy had joined the Love Your Weekend team.
Alan Titchmarsh spread joy to his Instagram followers on Thursday as he introduced an adorable new guest for his ITV series.
Alan Titchmarsh has been given an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list
GETTY
The gardener shared a snap of golden retriever-Labrador cross, Titch, explaining the puppy had joined the Love Your Weekend team.
The pooch attracted a flood of comments, with the presenter captioning the post: “‘Love Your Weekend’ has a new star: Titch – the Guide Dogs for the Blind puppy.
“We’ll be following his training with interest and encouragement. Go for it Titch!”
Titchmarsh’s followers found the newbie irresistible, with one writing: “Wonderful and great name choice too!”
