Bloom judges welcomed to Loughborough

It’s been great to welcome the judges back to Loughborough and I hope they have enjoyed seeing the projects and displays across the town

LOUGHBOROUGH looked blooming lovely as it took part in a regional horticultural competition.

The East Midlands in Bloom competition judges visited the town on Thursday, July 15 to see how volunteers have continued to demonstrate their pride and environmental responsibility during the pandemic.

Judging this year was carried out on a smaller scale compared to previous years and measures were put in place to keep people safe.

Loughborough in Bloom is supported by community groups, residents, businesses and organisations from across the town, including Charnwood Borough Council. This year’s Loughborough in Bloom portfolio has been dedicated in memory of the former Loughborough in Bloom chair Marion Smith, who sadly passed away last year.

Andy Rush, chair of Loughborough in Bloom said: “It was an honour to be asked to chair the Loughborough in Bloom Board once again, but the circumstances of my re-appointment, with the passing of the wonderful Marion Smith, were not welcome. “Marion was a kind-hearted individual who was always on hand to offer help to others.

“Her warmth and her self-deprecating humour are truly missed by all of us.

“It’s been great to welcome the judges back to Loughborough and I hope they have enjoyed seeing the different projects and displays across the town.

“Everyone has been working around the clock to get ready for their visit and I would like to thank everyone for their hard work.”

The East Midlands in Bloom result will be announced in October.

Cllr Jenny Bokor, the council’s lead member for Loughborough, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to welcome the judges back to Loughborough.

“The town once again looks blooming marvellous. It isn’t achieved without the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers and community groups involved. I would like to thank them all for getting involved this year.

“We hope the judges enjoyed their tour and visiting different projects in the community.

“We take great pride in our open spaces which have provided a safe space for residents over the past year. I’m sure people will agree that

Queen’s Park in Loughborough looking as wonderful as ever.

“Thanks also go to our open spaces partner, idverde and our waste contractor, Serco who both ensure the town looks great all year round.

“Fingers crossed we can achieve another gold award this year!”

This year’s Loughborough in Bloom portfolio can be found on the council’s website.