Congleton in Bloom has been selected from more than 600 entrants to take part in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom UK Finals 2016.
Congleton in Bloom is one of 72 finalists from across the UK and is in the Large Town (12,000 – 35,000) category. The group was selected for its outstanding commitment to environmental responsibility, community participation and gardening achievement.
In August this year, Congleton in Bloom’s passionate volunteers, along with the Town Council Streetscape staff, will be showing off their commitment to a greener, healthier Britain. They will lead RHS Britain in Bloom judges on a tour of local projects and initiatives in the hope of being awarded Gold at the annual award ceremony in October.
In recognition of challenges some RHS Britain in Bloom 2016 UK finalists face as a result of the recent floods, the RHS has created a new award to honour those who have battled against adversity.
The RHS discretionary award for overcoming adversity will recognise those groups that have worked in difficult circumstances to put the bloom back into their towns, villages and cities across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Jersey and Guernsey.
Councillor David Brown, who chairs the Congleton in Bloom team said: “We are really proud to be representing the North West in Britain in Bloom. It is a huge honour and challenge for the town and we are very grateful for all the support that so many businesses, groups and organisations give to the team. It really is a town-wide effort and everyone has a role to play! Local people can start to show their support by joining in the Right Royal Clean up – when Congleton joins in Clean for the Queen on Friday 4th March.
Andrea Van Sittart, RHS Head of Community Outreach, said: “We would like to congratulate Congleton in Bloom for reaching the UK finals of RHS Britain in Bloom. It’s a tremendous achievement and illustrates the groups’ impressive commitment to improving their local environment.
“Volunteers of all ages and all walks of life participate in Bloom, making extraordinary efforts to improve streets and neighbourhoods in towns, villages and cities across Britain. It is vital we celebrate and recognise their efforts to strengthen their communities and inspire others to get involved.”
Britain in Bloom groups are assessed on a wide range of initiatives, such as the maintenance of parks and communal gardens, the management of natural spaces, community campaigns to promote recycling and environmental awareness, and projects involving local residents and schools.
