First prize for couple’s garden glory
I● T WAS a clean sweep for Widnes in this year’s Halton Housing annual Digital Garden Competition. John and Margaret Mason, of Ditton, claimed the first prize, while William Bennett, also of Widnes, finished second.
Now in its fourth year, the contest attracted entries from around the borough.
Contestants have to take a photograph of their garden and send it via email, Facebook or other digital means.
A Halton Housing spokesman said the competition’s aim is to celebrate tenants who go the extra mile and contribute to the look of their neighbourhood.
He added that the event has proved popular with customers returning to compete year after year.
Passion and gardening knowledge were on display among this year’s entrants, with gardens demonstrating a selection of plants and colour combina- tions, evidence of recycling, and a tidy appearance all round.
Members of Halton Housing’s customer forum shortlisted the entries, with two members visiting the shortlisted gardens to decide the overall winner and runner-up.
The winner received a £50 Love2Shop voucher and Mr Bennett was awarded a £25 Love2Shop voucher.
Both were presented with a framed certificate each.
Debbie Jameson, Halton Housing customer engagement officer, said: “Our customer garden competition gives recognition to those who lead by example and inspire others in the community to look after their gardens.
“Once again, I’m very pleased to see so many people enter the garden competition; though judging seems to get harder every year.
“All of the gardens entered into the competition were a credit to the people looking after them.
“However, there can only be one overall winner, so many congratulations to Mr and Mrs Mason.”