Blooming marvellous
ROCHDALE has landed a series of prestigious North West in Bloom awards.
Months of hard work by volunteers has been recognised by judges from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) for creating a series of green oases across the borough.
Among the winners was the World War One popup garden at Rochdale Town Hall, which won best display in a public place, and Roy Down, who won the Outstanding contribution to North West in Bloom category.
A number of gold awards were also given to the borough, including Rochdale (small city and best town centre), Zen Internet (Sandbrook Way), Flying Horse Pub, Packer Street, and Nutters restaurant (both best small accommodation), and Springhill Hospice.
Rochdale Borough Council also received an overcoming adversity award.
The competition is the last of the season and follows on from award wins at RHS Tatton Park and from the national competition, Britain in Bloom.
RHS judges visited Rochdale borough in July and were impressed with the stunning displays, which were inspired by the First World War, to mark its centenary and honour the 16 million people who died in the conflict.
The winners were announced at a ceremony in Southport.
Following the awards ceremony, community volunteer and Rochdale in Bloom Chairman, Roy Down said: “The results from this year have been absolutely fantastic.
“The awards have been made possible because of the huge commitment in volunteer hours and council staff putting in an amazing effort for the regional competition. The Northwest awards are the icing on the cake.
“This year has been unique for Rochdale in Bloom because of the North West and Britain in bloom competitions. Two competitions, two judging days, within a month of each other. It is just incredible.
“To come away with two top awards is amazing.”
This is the third RHS win this year for Rochdale in Bloom, who have also received gold at Tatton Park for their ‘blooming border’ display and at the national Britain in Bloom competition in Belfast on 19 October.