Express & Star

Heart of England in Bloom results

Allotments to parks, community gardens to churches.

Published
Minions

The cleanest, greenest spots in the Black Country and Staffordshire have been recognised at by the Heart of England in Bloom.

A week after towns and villages took the limelight in picking up awards, this week it is the volunteer-led groups who spruce up areas within the community.

Each was assessed by judges and given a percentage score, breaking the numbers into five categories, from 'establishing' to 'outstanding'.

Among the 'outstanding' groups was Amblecote Allotments. It was praised for its work with schools and community groups.

Judges also liked the way group members used recycled containers and pumps.

Tony Southall, from the allotments group, said: "We work hard all year round so its nice to be recognised.

"We have 90 plots with only five now vacant.

"And an open day we held raised £578 for Mary Stevens Hospice."

Caldmore Community Garden in Walsall also got 'outstanding'.

It was praised for its floral beds, raised vegetable beds and pond.

Anna Webster, from the community garden, said: "We are delighted.

"It has been alot of effort from the team to make the garden look the way it does."

Friends of Shugborough Terrace picked up an 'outstanding' award.

Judges described the display of hanging baskets, wall planters and troughs as 'outstanding'.

Birchfield Residents Action Group was judged as 'thriving', one below 'outstanding'.

Judges said areas of achievement was a secret garden and increase in take-up of a front garden challenge.

Roger Bache, chairman of the Heart of England in Bloom Committee said: "It is no small task to undertake the assessing of all these projects this year but with these campaigns it’s not the winning that matters, it’s the taking part and in this instance the long lasting effects on the communities, environment and individuals.

"Our congratulations and thanks go out to all who have taken part and supported the campaigns.”