Volunteers receive special recognition at Cheltenham in Bloom 2016

A prize-giving ceremony was held at the Victory Club on 16 September.  Special recognition this year was given to all those who volunteer their time and skills to keep Cheltenham looking beautiful.

There were seven categories in the residents’ competition: front garden; rear garden; patio; single hanging basket, window box or container; community garden; and eco. For the first time this year, a ‘border’ category was introduced so that those without gardens can enjoy a part in the competition.

Residents received gold, silver gilt, silver or bronze awards for their efforts.

Local residents, Mr Stacy and Mr & Mrs Decarteret received special merit awards in recognition of their dedication to working in parks and gardens across the borough, whatever the weather.

A separate competition was also held for local businesses.

The Eco Commercial award went to Weird Fish for their innovative approach to recycling  and Manor by the Lake for their work towards biodiversity. The Business Pride award was given to Ubico and the council’s green space development team for their impressive year- round floral displays in Cheltenham’s parks and gardens, as well as their work towards the borough’s Green Flag awards.

Judges were particularly keen to recognise the work of volunteers this year. The President’s Award was given to FISHAC (friends of Imperial Square heritage and conservation) for the volunteers’ hard work in reinstating the railings around Imperial Gardens.  Friends of Pittville received the Committee Award for their huge part in raising funds for the new play area and towards the Heritage Green Flag award. 

Volunteers at St Christopher’s Gardening Club won the gold award for best Community Garden and the Community Pride award went to volunteers who have worked tirelessly litter picking and reinvigorating land at North Honeybourne and Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens .

Chris Ryder, Cheltenham’s Mayor and Chair of Cheltenham in Bloom said:  ‘’ This year, we were keen to offer special recognition to all of our volunteers who work tirelessly all year round.  We may not be rich in finances at this time but we are so rich in volunteers and friends groups. For this I am incredibly grateful and I am pleased that we were able to offer our thanks in this way. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners who work hard to keep Cheltenham looking attractive and welcoming.’’

Contact Katie Sandey for a full list of winners, as below.

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