Dennis Edwards, the Father of Covent Garden Flower Market dies at 71

LONDON, UK: Dennis Edwards, the man known as the Father of New Covent Garden Flower Market passed away on Sunday, 19 July.  

As co-owner of Dennis Edwards Flowers, the previous owner of John Austin Flowers Co. and employee of the Flower Market for more than 50 years, Dennis will be a familiar face and friend to many. Dennis was a true confidant supporting florists across London, supplying them throughout their careers with top quality flowers. His presence at New Covent Garden Flower Market will be sorely missed.

As a third-generation Covent Garden Market trader, Dennis started in the Flower Market as a porter, aged 17. Over the next six decades, he would have an illustrious career, with highlights including sourcing Lily of the Valley for HRH the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding bouquet, flowers for the coffin at the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales, as well as 3,000 rose petals for the 9/11 remembrance service.

Dennis will be remembered at New Covent Garden Flower Market as a true gentleman and legend in the floral industry. Covent Garden Market Authority have sent their deepest condolences to his family and will be keeping them along with his friends and colleagues in our thoughts at this difficult time.