In some parts of locked-down London the city’s warm micro-climate means that many older roses are blooming even earlier than usual.

Some of the most enjoyable benefits of belonging to the HRG are select private day visits to gardens and nurseries with historic roses. In early June 2016 a small group visited Seale Nurseries in Surrey for a study morning, where we were welcomed by owners Catherine and David May.

To celebrate the 25th anniversaries of the Historic Roses Group of the Royal National Rose Society and the Hampton Court Flower Show in 2015, a collection of 25 varieties of historic roses was donated to the Hampton Court Palace gardens by the Historic Roses Group.

John Wood, head gardener at Hinton Ampner, held an autumn pruning and cuttings workshop in 2015 at these magnificent National Trust gardens, which was very well attended. After a presentation on the history and development of the estate, and a copious afternoon tea, John led members on a tour round the gardens.

Roses are a major part of our horticultural heritage. Fashions in horticulture change: roses that once enjoyed huge popularity in Britain have disappeared from commerce. The Historic Roses Group of the Royal National Rose Society is seeking to ensure that this heritage is not lost forever.