' No Plants, No Planet: Horticulture – making a world of difference’, theIOH conference plays host to an impressive array of speakers who will explore how the industry is responding to the challenges of climate change, ensuring food security, changes in land use and safeguarding bio diversity.

For full details from the Institute of Horticulture email ioh@horticulture.org.uk. ‘phone 01992 707025

The conference is to be held  on  the 10th and 11th September at Writtle College, Chelmsford, Essex.  As well as members of the Institute, the conference is open to anyone who has an interest in these issues, from policy makers to training providers, local authority staff to voluntary sector professionals, researchers and suppliers.

Speakers include: Rosie Boycott, Chair of London Food; Dr David Barling of the Centre for Food Policy, University of London; Tim Briercliffe, Chair of Greening the UK Campaign; Dr Simon Thornton-Wood, RHS; Dr Ross Cameron, University of Reading: Dr Derek Stewart Head of the Plant Products and Food Programme, SCRI; Elaine Hughes, London Wildlife Trust; organic grower Iain Tolhurst and many more.

There will also be the opportunity, on September 12, for delegates to hear about and visit the 2012 London Olympic Park and see the impact horticulture is having on this high-profile site.