Town takes pride in horticulture awards
THE Royal Horticultural Society has awarded Newbury a Pride of Place award for its In Bloom project at Old Hospital Green.
The award is in recognition of the Old Hospital Green NHS Commemorative Garden.
There was more success with a Conservation and Wildlife Award for City Recreation Ground’s orchard and wildflower meadow too.
The commemorative garden in Andover Road was rated “excellent” by the judges.
It is designed in the shape of an “antibody” with existing artwork as the nucleus.
Additionally, herbs, shrubs and plants were planted – many with medicinal benefits.
Thames and Chiltern in Bloom judges said that the new garden provided a focal point and reminder of the pandemic and was a place for people to enjoy.
They said: “Using the existing artwork as the nucleus and with planting of a medicinal theme is both fitting and appropriate.
“We look forward to seeing this garden as part of a Bloom entry in the future.”
It is also home to the ‘Binary Conversation’ sculpture.
Newbury Town Council leader Martin Colston was “proud” and “pleased” to receive the awards.
He said: “We would like to thank all of our volunteers who have spent their own time helping with the projects.
“Newbury’s ‘Green Gym’ are now taking on the maintenance of the garden at Old Hospital Green and I am looking forward to seeing it flourish in years to come.”
Growing Newbury Green and the town council have been championing edible crops at City Recreation Ground to encourage the community to care for orchards.
The wildflower meadow is now in its second year, with more than 15 species found in its first 12 months, including corn marigold, common poppy, cornflower, yarrow, wild carrot and borage.