Tributes flood in for ‘Mr Bloom’ Harry Cook
WARM TRIBUTES have been paid to Loughborough’s Mr Bloom, Harry Cook, who died suddenly at his home on Thursday afternoon ( July 19).
Harry and his wife Pat are renowned for their wonderful flower displays at the couple’s Forest Road home, and Harry was well known for his work with other volunteers, transforming ‘The Green Belt’ and making it a haven for wildlife, fairies and flowers
He had played an integral role in the success of Loughborough in Bloom in recent years and the shock news came just 24 hours after he was featured on the famous BBC TV programme Gardeners’ World.
Loughborough Echo editor Andy Rush said: “It’s really sad news. Harry was one of those people who really made a difference to people’s lives. Our thoughts are with Pat and his family.”
Coun Jonathan Morgan, leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “We were very sorry to hear that Harry has passed away and our thoughts are with his family.
“Harry’s work for Loughborough in Bloom and the community in general has been immense over the years.
“Harry and Pat’s home is one of the most recognisable sites in Loughborough thanks to their stunning gardens which have won countless awards and praise.
“It is perhaps fitting that just this week their beautiful home, one of the high- lights in the annual bloom judging, appeared on BBC Gardeners’ World – the pinnacle for many gardeners.
“Harry has literally helped Loughborough bloom and he will be sorely missed by all.”
Coun Hilary Fryer, who sits on the Loughborough in Bloom board and has been involved for many years, said: “Harry was such a stalwart for the community and his passing is a sad loss for the whole of Loughborough.
“He did a tremendous amount of good work with many community groups and children in the town. Just this week I was delighted to see Harry and his garden on BBC Gardeners’ World, something the whole town was immensely proud of.
“Loughborough in Bloom would not have been the same without Harry Cook.”
Mike Jones, former Loughborough in Bloom community chairman and current vice chairman said: “The passing of legendary local gardener Harry Cook, at the age of 73, is a sad day, not only for his family and friends, but also the wider community in Loughborough. His contribution to the quality of life in the town, particularly the Forest Road Green Belt area, is enormous, and he will be sadly missed.
“Harry Cook’s name, and his achievements, will be remembered for many years to come. People may carry titles and positions, but Harry was a true gentleman in all respects. Hardworking yet modest, Skilful yet willing to share his skills with others, he has made a contribution to our town that has rarely been equalled. May he rest in peace, following a life well lived and leaving a legacy of floral and environmental excellence for future generations.”
There was also a tweet from the BBC Gardeners’ World team which had visited Harry earlier this month.
“We’ve just heard that local hero, Harry Cook, has sadly passed away. His work with Loughborough in Bloom won the heart of the nation when he appeared on #GardenersWorld this week, and our thoughts are with his family and everyone who knew him. He was one in a million.”
Hundreds of people posted tribute messages on the Loughborough Echo Facebook page when the story broke on Friday and Harry’s family this week spoke of their pride at the heartfelt messages they had seen since his death.
Harry’s wife Pat said: “Harry asked for no return for what he did. He was in someways a quiet man, though determined. We are amazed at the wonderful messages we have received, especially the home made cards from the children.”
Harry’s son Gary added: “We are so proud of him. He did it because he enjoyed it and for no other reason.”