Bloom judges keen to see colourful displays
JUDGES from the South and South East In Bloom competition were led on a tour of Aldershot yesterday in the lead-up to the awardwinners being announced.
The panel was given a 15-minute presentation on the town’s credentials before being taken to view displays and meet key individuals who have contributed to bringing life and colour to the town.
The winning entries will be announced in September, but Aldershot was helped by gloriously sunny weather for the judges’ visit.
David Phillips, town centre manager, said: “We couldn’t have hoped for a nicer day weather-wise.
“It’s not just about In Bloom, it’s about involvement in the community, environmental responsibility and initiatives to improve the look of the town.”
The judges were introduced to the operations manager at Cineworld in Westgate, the manager of McDonald’s and Hazel Chant who co-ordinates Blooming Marvellous – a Rushmoor scheme that allows supported adults the chance to volunteer and maintain flower beds such as those outside Aldershot Library.
Poppies in the central reservations near the Princes Hall and other areas of the borough for the First World War centenary are new for this year’s competition, as is a floral display in Princes Gardens designed by schoolchildren.
Mr Phillips said the judges had been impressed with the Aldershop pop-up shop scheme in Union Street just before Christmas, as well as Cineworld’s new butterfly garden.