BOROUGH FLOWER SHOW WILL GO ON, BUT WITH A TWIST
THERE WILL HOWEVER BE A TWIST TO THIS YEAR’S IN BLOOM CONTEST
PERHAPS surprisingly, Hillingdon’s ever popular gardening competition is back this year despite the coronavirus lockdown.
But how on earth is it going to work you may ask? - excuse the pun!
Well Hillingdon Council has decided to launch the annual Hillingdon in Bloom event with a twist to abide by social distancing measures by judging entries virtually.
Borough chiefs believe the contest will give green-fingered residents the chance to get active outdoors and give neighbourhoods a bright colour boost during the pandemic.
Categories this year include best hanging basket, best window box, best balcony and a new category of best rainbow display. This can be a garden, pot, window box or hanging basket in a colourful arrangement to celebrate all the key workers in Hillingdon.
Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon’s finance boss, said: “During these unprecedented times, we’d like to encourage residents to take pride in their front gardens and balconies to help keep their neighbourhoods looking bright and attractive.
“Gardening is a fantastic hobby which encourages learning new skills outdoors whilst keeping your mind and body active. Whether you’ve never planted anything before or you’re a seasoned gardener - there’s something for everyone! We’re really looking forward to seeing all your colourful entries online this year.”
Entries will be accepted by email and the competition is free to enter. The winners will receive gardening centre gift vouchers and a certificate as well as their entries being featured in the council’s Hillingdon People magazine.
The council will be sharing tutorials and top tips online to help beginners learn new gardening tricks.
For more information and how to enter, go to www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ bloom