Our favourite presenters are those that we feel a connection with, usually through a combination of their personality, believability and knowledge. And the modern information-rich world is full of images, moving and still, which aim to stimulate and connect with us. Meanwhile, with mobile devices so readily to hand, it is easy to take pictures or shoot video. But to ensure the best engagement and communication with an audience, all aspects of the visual medium need careful consideration, composition and presentation.

As a trained teacher, David has taught at various horticultural colleges and is at ease in front of a live audience. He has instructed students both at theory and practical level, understanding the need to explain and demonstrate his topic in a way that results in learning. This means that he can present in a classroom, on stage and on screen. And after planning, directing and appearing in hundreds of photographic shoots for gardening magazines, he realises the need to show what’s going on in a clear and understandable way.

On screen gardener

His IPC Media training when he worked for Amateur Gardening magazine included TV and video skills courses which were put to good use in the mid 1990’s when he was asked to be the ‘garden guru’ on satellite TV for UK Living’s Live at 3, a magazine-style programme presented by Jayne Irving which ran for a number of years. This involved both live broadcasts and pre-recorded items which David researched, scripted and co-presented. He also made a number of appearances as a garden expert and commentator on BBC1’s Good Morning with Anne and Nick, at Pebble Mill studios. Such TV work help him become naturally at ease in front of the camera.

While working as horticultural editor and deputy editor for BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, David presented numerous practical demonstrations in front of large live audiences at BBC Gardeners’ World Live at the NEC. At the same event, he has also co-presented items with TV’s Carol Klein, as well as conducting live stage interviews with Mary Berry and Alan Titchmarsh. He continues to make appearances at this national show, presenting practical demonstrations in front of a live audience.

David launched his own YouTube channel back in 2018 which helps gardeners to understand basic skills and refine their own long-standing techniques. He explains some of the science behind the gardening to help viewers have a better understanding of the topic. In addition, he has worked with the editor of gardenersworld.com to develop video formats for the website, including the No Fuss Guides and Quick Tips. For these he researched, scripted and presented many practical, instructive and informative videos. And, during the COVID-19 pandemic he has started self-filming Ask David, a weekly video in which he answers questions sent in by subscribers.