It is with great sadness that we report the news that much loved and highly respected Irish florist Desi Banks passed away on 30th December 2011.

A fabulous personality, as well as a great designer, judge and champion of the floristry industry, Desi will be greatly missed. Desi, through his business, Sheila's of Dublin, which he ran with wife Heather and son Nigel, was one of Interflora's first Irish members and also worked for the Irish Flower Council for many years.

F&WB’s Publisher, Caroline Marshall-Foster, commented: “I am so sad to hear the news. Desi looked after me at my first Interflora conference and saved me at the Irish party. My prayers go to Desi’s wife Heather and the rest of the family.”