Gardeners honoured for lockdown blooms
Gardeners in Sunderland have been recognised for their efforts during lockdown for bringing some colour into people lives.
Susan Remmer collected the top prize in the tenant category of the annual Gentoo gardening competition for transforming her garden in Hunbledon Hill into a safe haven – including creating a memorial bench for her father.
She won £200 from after beating off all the other competitors – on her first time entering the competition.
Susan said: “Winning the competition has been brilliant and is something I’ll always remember.
“My garden has been brilliant for my mental health throughout the lockdown and myself and my daughter have enjoyed creating a colourful and relaxing place that we can enjoy all day."
Dedicated residents from the housing association’s sheltered scheme, Peacehaven Court in Washington, secured first place in the community garden category.
The scheme’s garden in Washington has been transformed by the residents, with some taking a leading role in the gardening and others contributing by buying flowers, equipment, and refreshments.
The residents also won a £200 prize which they intend to spend on a ‘Freedom Day’ celebration in the coming weeks.
Resident Doreen Wilson said: “Everyone has worked together to create a garden that all of the residents can enjoy and we’re really proud to have been named winners in the category.
“It’s been difficult over the past year, but our garden gave us a space to safely meet up, spend time together and have fun. We’ll enjoy celebrating with our party in the next few weeks when we can get all of the residents back together again.”
Catherine Loftus, head of tenant voice at Gentoo Group, said: “We’ve really enjoyed the competition this year and have been blown away by the commitment our tenants have shown to creating beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces.
“It’s always great to see tenants taking pride in their homes and I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to enter the competition this year.”
Gentoo and competition sponsors Equans and Tolent plc have also recognised other residents and schools who entered the competition.