East Staffordshire Borough Council’s Federation of ‘In Bloom’ groups has received three prestigious awards, scooping three gold medals, at the annual Heart of England In Bloom competition, held yesterday [20th September] at the National Brewery Centre, Burton upon Trent.
The competition rewards community groups for the quality of floral displays, horticultural excellence and community involvement. More than 3,000 groups participate each year to help improve their local villages, towns and cities.
Burton in Bloom claimed a Gold award in the Small City category, Uttoxeter received a Gold award in the Town category and Winshill in Bloom won a Gold award and was the overall winner in the Urban Community category. The Winshill in Bloom entry is also through to the national finals in 2019. Branston in Bloom, in their first year as entrants, received a Silver award in their entry into the Urban Community category.
A special award was also given to Winshill’s Peace Wood for the best landscaping and the Go Garden project at Uttoxeter Leisure Centre won the best environmental award.
Since 2008, entries submitted by East Staffordshire Borough Council have successfully achieved over 30 consecutive gold awards.
Councillor Colin Whittaker, Deputy Leader for Cultural Services, said: ““I am absolutely delighted that we have received three gold medals and a silver medal. It’s also fantastic to see that the Peace Wood and the Go Garden project have been recognised as the best in their category
“This is a credit to all involved, both volunteers and staff, and adds so much to the environment across the borough. The success that East Staffordshire has achieved would not be possible without the help of community groups and volunteers.”