Monty Don's first gig after bombshell Gardeners' World exit announcement revealed

Monty Don’s first role following his shocking Gardeners’ World exit announcement has been revealed.

Don, the programme’s longest-serving head gardener, said the show had been a “deeply rewarding experience” but believed “now is the right time for a change”.

Monty Don said he will continue to work with the BBC on other projects (James Manning/PA)

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Now, the veteran presenter has swapped his signature wellies for a pair of trainers - though not just any trainers; his own range of shoes made in collaboration with New Balance.

The popular sportswear brand has teamed with jewellery brand Bleue Burnham to bring out two designs, both new interpretations of its iconic Made in UK 991v1 style.

Promotional video and images for the new trainers show Don posing with the shoes as he explores a garden.

The trainer, which has been inspired by “wild gardens”, is launching exclusively to the brand's mailing list on September 12 at 12pm BST.

A New Balance spokesperson said: “The collaboration follows the launch of The Flimby Garden.

“A permanent garden curated by Bleue Burnham for the people behind the New Balance Made In UK at its factory in Flimby, Cumbria.

“Created as a dedicated space for rest, reflection and connection, the garden brought New Balance’s manufacturing heritage with Burnham’s distinctive creative language and longstanding relationship with the natural world.”

British television presenter and gardener Monty Don, with his wife Sarah, pictured at the Edinburgh International Book Festival,

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“There are more books to write, more programmes to make.

“And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow.”

First joining the programme in 2003, Monty has since inspired millions of viewers with his warmth, wisdom and passion for gardening.

He began presenting the BBC show at Berryfields, a rented garden in Stratford-upon-Avon, before moving to his own garden, Longmeadow in Herefordshire in 2011, where he has presented ever since.