When I published this post about the kidnapping of Rod and Rachel Saunders of Silverhill seeds several weeks ago I promised to update it with any significant news.
I am very sad to report that a badly decomposed body discovered at the mouth of the river where one of the suspects described dumping the bodies has indeed been confirmed as that of Rodney Saunders:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-43901056
This news comes as I prepare a post on seed germination and have been taking photos of the first seedlings to emerge from my last batch of seeds from Rod and Rachel. Needless to say I now feel a great responsibility to ensure these plants thrive.

That’s horrible news. Maybe your fertile hands and tender care will help his memory to live on.
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Hope so, at least in some small way.
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Oh my God ! Is it sure that it’s them?
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DNA says so. The blood in the car was identified as being from Rachel so it does not look hopeful for her either.
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😦awwww! That’s terrible !
I’m sorry Darren.
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This is an horrible news indeed. I know you had expected it but still must be hard on you my friend. I am thinking of you. Big hugs. xoxo
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How very very sad. I hope that as your seeds grow you will find some cofmort.
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So sad! Hugs to you! Those baby plants will thrive under your care!
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OMG, I am so sorry, Darren, stay strong and carry on the memory of these people through cycle of life.
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That’s terrible – so sorry for your loss – hugs x
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That’s sad to hear the outcome, though it is great that you are taking good care of these plants. Hope they will turn out well 🙂
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This is horrible news! I kept thinking about them these last weeks and so much hoped for a different outcome.
Wishing you strength and the best of luck with these seeds, Darren! Hugs! ❤
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Thank you Sarah. Love your new picture😄.
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You’re very welcome, Darren.
And thank you very much! Most people don’t seem to have noticed that I’ve changed my gravatar -lol! 😊 💕
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Sad news! They looked like such very sweet people. I sure hope they didn’t suffer long.
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Very sad news. Their work will live on through your caring hands. Much love to you my friend.
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What a world we live in. I am so sorry that you have lost such a special couple in your life. When we are passionate about something and share that passion with others there is a true bond, no matter how far away they may be. It sounds like you had that type of relationship with Rod and Rachel. Sending uplifting hugs. 🤗
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Indeed and thank you. They were part of what will almost certainly be the last generation of great plant hunters. In recent years we have lost several. The loss of the knowledge these people had makes me as sad as anything.
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Devastating on many levels. Did they keep a large operation of greenhouses going, as well as hunting plants in the wild?
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I’m not sure Linda. Their core business was wild material, for which they were allowed a very rare privilege of permits from the nature conservation authorities due to their sustainable work practices and conservation support.
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Such special people spreading the love of African plants around the world.
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I am so sad for this news Darren, I know you are devastated. The world can be such a cruel place and I’m glad you can bring some beauty and life out of it with the seeds. Hugs to you dear friend.
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Thank you for the hugs Jen and I hope you are doing ok?
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You’re welcome 🙂 The last few weeks have been very, very hard, funny you should ask, but when I read what you’re dear friends suffered I realize things could always be so much worse….I will look for the good and aim for thankfulness, thanks!
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Sorry to hear things have been bad Jen. Sending you a virtual hug❤
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Thank you for the hug! Working on a post now, reviewing nature pictures is always good for the mood and dear friends like you. Have a beautiful day there in the UK!
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I remember reading your earlier post regarding this. I’m so sorry it’s ended in such tragedy. I know in a more recent blog post you’ve written you’re well, I hope that still stands. 💕
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Thank you Arbie. Yes, I am ok but battling tiredness. Get a week off soon😄
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At least you know the truth, now you can work on closure😊
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I am so sorry and this is horrible. What a memory they leave behind but I know their plants are in the best hands possible. Hugs
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Every day I see something new germinating or flowering from their seeds and my feelings are very mixed. Bittersweet is the right word. Thank you dear friend. Dx
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I can only imagine and bittersweet it is. I’m sorry you are reminded of these painful moments while doing an amazing thing. You heart is of gold my dear friend. Xo
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Thank you😍
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Most welcome ❤️
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