Communities put heart and soul into ‘In Bloom’ efforts

The Heart of England in Bloom Awards presentation was held in Wolverhampton last week with the town and the village receiving top honours in their respective categories.

The best gardens from the Leamington in Bloom and Wellesbourne in Bloom competitions were chosen to be judged earlier in the year.

Enid Simms, chairman of Leamington in Bloom, said: “Didn’t we do well?

“We are absolutely delighted, everybody worked so hard and it is a great result.

“I just think it is so good for Leamington.”

The gardening side of the town’s campaign was organised by Warwick District Council while Leamington in Bloom’s committee ran events to promote the town’s effort, which included handing out sunflower seeds to schools for pupils to plant.

Entrants also opened up their gardens for public viewing and raised £896 for the Leamington Dolphins club, which provides swimming lessons for disabled children and their siblings.

Wellesbourne in Bloom’s effort was equally dedicated and all those involved were rewarded with their third gold award in as many years.

Chairman Heather Sims said she even helped co-ordinate the effort using an iTouch device while she was visiting her daughter in Vietnam.

Mrs Sims added: “We were a bit nervous because having won these awards we thought we might not be able to do it again.

“There are only six of us on the committee but we get a lot of help from the community - cakes and cream scones are the fuel we provide them and it works.

“Everybody pulled together and we are proud because it is hard work and it is all appreciated.”

Warwick in Bloom also received a silver gilt award.

Heart of England in Bloom is the regional element of the Britain in Bloom campaign and is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Regional category winners are entered into the national competition.

The campaign aims to encourage communities to work together to improve and enhance their environment.

Leamington in Bloom winners will receive their awards at a private presentation ceremony at Leamington town hall tonight (Friday).