Passionate in her quest for using gardening to support those less fortunate in society, Sara Venn founded Edible Bristol in 2014, an organisation which supports communities to create gardens in lost and unloved spaces across the city. Since its inception, the Bristol community now has over 60 productive outdoor spaces.
A gardener at heart, she taught ecologically friendly gardening and growing, sharing the skills learned in her 20 year career in the horticulture industry. In an interview with Horticulture Magazine (November 2024), she revealed that of all she accomplished, her true joy came from gardening with people. “Seeing people gradually come to realise how gardening can be the solution to so many problems is so special. It has the power to bring people from all backgrounds together.”
She was also the chair of Bristol Food Producers, an organisation supporting new entrants to farming in urban and peri-urban areas of Bristol, supporting land, skills and market access, along with a solidarity network. Sara was also a Trustee of Feeding Bristol, which works to ensure everyone has access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food.
Yesterday, Sara’s son Noah, posted the sad news via Instagram: “It’s with a completely broken heart that I have to tell everyone that yesterday evening my mum, Sara Venn, passed away. I cannot begin to tell you all how much we are hurting but also thankful she is no longer in any pain.”
In reply to the post, garden designer Ann-Marie Powell wrote: “Heartfelt admiration, respect and love. As you know, your mother was a warrior, she loved her craft, people, her family and I think most of all, you. We are all by her, and your side.”
James Alexander-Sinclair added: “I am so sorry to hear this Noah, my condolences to all your family. Your mother was a mould breaker, a persistent campaigner with fierce principles, someone who cared deeply about the power of gardening for people. She was also funny.”
A spokesperson for Pesticide Action Network UK added: “Terribly sad to hear this. She was such a strong, thoughtful, insightful, empathetic and generous woman. So sorry for your loss. She was a big part of our community fighting for change. She will be missed.”
