New Westminster – The City of New Westminster was presented with its own unique rose today in a dedication ceremony at City Hall. Officially named the “Royal City Rose”, the hybrid flower was bred by Brad Jalbert of Select Roses in Langley.

“What a wonderful gift to the citizens of New Westminster for our 150th birthday,” said Mayor Wayne Wright. “We’re honoured to join those cities around the world that enjoy the distinction of having their very own variety of rose.”

The dedication ceremony was the culmination of nearly a decade of effort by Claude LeDoux, New Westminster’s Parks Horticulture Manager. LeDoux contacted Jalbert eight years ago to discuss the possibility of creating a quality rose for the City. Jalbert set to work experimenting with different varieties and, after six years of testing for winter hardiness, disease resistance and freedom of bloom, the rose was ready.

“The process really was a labour of love and I’m very proud that this rose will have special significance here in New Westminster,” said Jalbert. “It’s a beautiful city and I can’t think of a better way to commemorate the Royal City’s 150th anniversary than with its very own rose.”

The Mayor and Council were on hand to plant the first “Royal City Rose” on City Hall grounds.

“This truly leaves a living legacy for our children and provides us with a distinctive gift to offer our sister cities, visiting dignitaries to our city and our citizens,” said Wright.

The apricot-hued, lightly perfumed “Royal City Rose” has been registered with the International Cultivar Registration Authority and the American Rose Society. The rose will take centre stage as renovations to the Queen's Park Rose Garden are completed and will be the highlight of a tour by the World Rose Convention and Festival on June 20, 2009. “Royal City Rose” cuttings will be made available for purchase by the public in the fall.

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Contact:

Claude LeDoux, Parks Horticulture Manager
Tel: 604-527-4627
Email:

Blair Fryer, Communications Manager
Tel: 604-527-4688
Email: bfryer@newwestcity.ca