Monty Don prepares for final BBC Gardeners' World episode

Monty Don will host Gardeners' World for the very last time this week after more than 20 years.

In September, the BBC announced the green-fingered presenter would depart the show at the end of the current series.

In a statement, Don said working on the show had been a "deeply rewarding experience", but added: "Now is the right time for a change."

And in an update, published on the Gardeners' World Instagram page, the 71-year-old said Friday (6 November) would be "my very last".

He said: "This Friday will be my very last Gardeners' World. I began 23 years ago.

"For 16 years, we've been filming in this garden with my various dogs, and that's come to an end.

"But, it's a brilliant programme as ever, and it's been a complete privilege to be part of it.

"So, join me on Friday for the last time."

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Paying tribute to Don, the BBC said he had "inspired and guided millions of viewers with his warmth, wisdom and passion for gardening" since joining the programme in 2003.

Don began presenting the programme at Berryfields, a rented garden in Stratford-upon-Avon, before it moved in 2011 to his own garden, Longmeadow in Herefordshire.

A statement released by Don in September, read: "Throughout that time - and around 700 programmes - I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience.

"That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived."

Don added he had "always relished the craft of programme making" and paid tribute to the "superlative BBC team" he worked with over the years.

"I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues," he concluded. "And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow."

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