RESIDENTS – DIG IN AND MAKE OUR BEAUTIFUL BOROUGH BLOOM

Green-fingered residents of all ages in Newcastle-under-Lyme are once again being asked to show off their gardening prowess.

Entries are invited into the summer horticultural competitions as part of the borough’s latest Heart of England in Bloom campaign.

This year’s theme, “Go Bloomin’ Green”, encourages people to think about changes we can introduce and how they can make a difference to the planet. A “special feature” award will be given to the best sustainable and environmentally-friendly project.

The categories are: allotments, residential gardens, community projects (schools), community gardens (groups) and licensed premises/businesses.   You can enter online and the deadline for entries is 5pm on Friday.

Beverley Sutton, Community Officer, said: “Britain in Bloom brings communities together with the common aim of improving the environment – and quality of life – for residents, shoppers, visitors and businesses.

“Our local competitions play an important part in the borough’s long running and successful campaign, which is being led by Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District for the first time this year, and always attract a lot of talented gardeners. We’re hoping as many people as possible join us this year in helping to make Newcastle-under-Lyme an even nicer place to live, shop and visit.

“Our experienced judges are really excited to see everyone and their projects. They’ll be taken to see entries from all over the borough.”

Certificates and donated prizes will be awarded to winners at a ceremony at the New Vic Theatre later in the year.

Maureen Wilson and Graham Green, from Kidsgrove, won the popular residential category in 2023 after again impressing the judges with their outstanding horticultural work.

This year’s competitions are sponsored by Garners Garden Centre in Silverdale and Jacksons Nurseries, Tea Room & Farm Shop.