Delighted members of the Congleton in Bloom team have come home with a Gold award, following the town’s success in the Britain in Bloom awards, held in Birmingham last Friday.
Congleton was given the honour of representing the North West after winning the large town category in the regional awards last year. Of the 1,600 communities that take part in regional competitions around the UK only around 5% are selected to go to the national finals.
Congleton in Bloom was formed in 1998 and this is the fourth time that the team has reached the national finals, having been a finalist in 2001, 2007 and 2014. The team also achieved gold in 2014.
At the award ceremony at Edgbaston, In Bloom finalists were praised by RHS President Sir Nicholas Bacon for the differences that they are making in their communities, particularly through the campaign to ‘Grey Green Britain’. Garden designer and TV presenter Chris Beardshaw also applauded In Bloom teams for the work that they are carrying out to transform their communities.
Congleton had to wait until almost the end of the evening for the results of the large town category, six golds were awarded and four silver gilts. The team was delighted to receive a gold medal on behalf of everyone who has worked so hard to achieve this award for the town.
Congleton Town Mayor Cllr David Brown, who also chairs the Congleton in Bloom team said: “It was an honour to represent Congleton in Bloom at the national finals for the second time in three years. I was incredibly proud when we were presented with our GOLD medal and I want to thank all the volunteers, groups, organisations, sponsors and Council staff who made this success possible. Without them all there would be no Bloom in Congleton. “
National judges Mel Henley and Jim Goodwin, who judged the town on the 8th August, commented: “One cannot fail to be impressed with the colourful displays on roundabouts, railings and other areas on entering the town. These efforts continue into parks, open spaces, community areas and the town centre. There is an obvious pride in making this town an attractive place to visit and enjoy. Our hosts were well prepared and keen to display the efforts made by everyone. The judges thank you for your hospitality and the efforts made to make our visit so enjoyable”.
North West in Bloom Chairman Bill Blackledge came over to congratulate Congleton after the ceremony. The Congleton in Bloom team, businesses and neighbourhoods will learn the results of the North West in Bloom competition on Thursday 27th and Friday 28th October.
