Blooming good news for Chirk floral display group
Published date:
01 January 2013 |
Published by:
Emily Davies
Read more articles by Emily Davies
CHIRK’S blooming good 2012 horticultural successes have helped to secure the future of a national competition.
The long-standing Wales in Bloom contest looked set to fold at the start of this year after losing the economic support of local authorities, leaving entrants to foot the bill for the donation-funded organisation.
But thanks to Chirk’s win in the Britain in Bloom competition, plus the organisation’s own recognition in the Royal Horticultural Society awards, 2013 is set to be the best year yet for the contest.
The town was a first-time entrant in the Urban Community category, scooping the gold medal and joint award winners, plus best ‘Heritage’ entry.
Jackie Allen, who chairs Chirk Community Forum, leading Chirk’s ‘In Bloom’ entries and was recognised as a Community Champion by judges.
She commented: “We could not have entered the Britain in Bloom contest without Wales in Bloom, so we are extremely pleased that it is carrying on. It is a fantastic thing for communities in Wales and brings so many benefits such as cleaner streets and pride in the community.
“But it also brings communities together because these competitions are a team effort. Without the strong team we have in Chirk we could not do it – we really have a superb team.”
Rhyl and Tenby also enjoyed success in the RHS event, taking a silver medal in the Large Towns class, and silver gilt in the Coastal Towns, respectively.
Wales in Bloom Chairman, Jim Goodwin said: “This was a great end to a turbulent year. Through the hard work of the organisation members, we managed to survive, what could well have been our final year.
“Most of the Bloom entries are run by enthusiastic volunteers and it was particularly good to see one of them, Jackie Allen, receive recognition at the 2012 Britain in Bloom Awards.”
To get involved in the 2013 competition visit www.walesinbloom.org.uk