Rose named after TV star Gregg Wallace’s son launched to support autistic children and young people

A new rose named after four-year-old Sid Wallace, the autistic son of television presenter Gregg Wallace, is set to increase autism acceptance and raise vital funds to support autistic children and young people across the nation. 

The Little Sid Rose has been created by the Harkness Rose Company, renowned British rose breeders since 1879, with £5 from every rose sold being donated to Ambitious about Autism, the national charity standing with autistic children and young people.  

Gregg and his wife Anna are parents to four-year-old Sid, who is autistic and non-speaking. Gregg became an ambassador for Ambitious about Autism earlier this year.  

He said: “Raising an autistic child has many challenges but also great joys, as other families with lived experience will know. Anna and I are very proud of our wonderful son Sid and this rose is a celebration of him and all autistic young people.  

“I hope it will help to increase understanding and acceptance of autism. The fact that donations will enable the Ambitious about Autism charity to support more autistic children and young people is incredible.” he added.   

Jolanta Lasota, Chief Executive of Ambitious about Autism, added: “This beautiful rose embodies the pride and love that Gregg and his family have for Sid - feelings that will be shared by families of autistic children everywhere.  

“Thanks to this wonderful initiative we are embracing difference, increasing understanding and raising vital funds to support autistic children and young people across the nation.”  

Thanks to support from gardening businesses YouGarden and Harkness Roses, £5 from every rose sold with support Ambitious about Autism’s work. 

The rose will also be on proud display at next year’s Chelsea Flower Show taking place in May. 

You can buy your Little Sid Rose on YouGarden.com.