Growers saddened by Peter Falla's death

THE growing industry has lost an important and well-respected figure. Peter Falla, the Horticulture Committee president, died in hospital in England on Monday. Guernsey Growers' Association president David Miller had known Mr Falla for many years. 'He was a lovely man, a great friend and I am desperately sad that he has gone. He was extremely kind and generous with his time.' He acknowledged the work that Mr Falla had done for the industry and, latterly, in his role as committee president. Mr Falla had been a grower for much of his working life, starting with tomatoes. When roses became popular, he moved into that, then ornamental plant production and finally herbs. 'Not only did he represent the industry as a member of the States, but he also had a very broad background and was familiar with the problems and the whole experience of horticulture, which made him an admirable person to be president. 'He was a personal friend to many of us and will be greatly missed. The association extends its deepest sympathy to his wife, Babs, and family.' Deputy Peter Bougourd and Mr Falla both represented St Sampson's parish. Although at different schools, they attended the Capelles Youth Centre together. 'I knew him since my school days and although our lives were parallel, we were never really close. 'I have always had a respect for him as a Guernsey grower and an honest man.' Former GGA president Rodney Brouard had known Mr Falla ever since he used to spray his glasshouse crops during the mid-sixties. 'I can honestly say it would be difficult to find a person who was more friendly and considerate. I would doubt that Peter had any enemies, even in the States of Deliberation, which he served loyally for many years,' he said. 'When I was GGA president and he was Horticulture Committee president, we had many lively meetings at Burnt Lane, but remained friends.' The committee's deputy chief executive, Richard Nash, said that Mr Falla was well liked by all staff who worked with him. 'Deputy Falla was always friendly, enthusiastic, quick to praise and willing to help staff to get the job done. His leadership was always understated and unassuming, but his openness, informality and enthusiasm generated strong support and a happy and busy approach by all staff to the work of the committee.' Of two policy reviews prepared during Mr Falla's presidency, the first was accepted by the States in 1999 and the most recent will be debated at the September meeting. 'His experience and business success gave him a strong belief in the value of encouraging growers to make the best of their business opportunities,' said Mr Nash. The committee's vice-president, Douzenier Bill Robilliard, said Mr Falla would be greatly mourned. 'He was a man who cared for people and cared intensely for the industry, which had been his life,' he said. The St Sampson's Douzaine Room flag was flown at half-mast yesterday.