responsibility, community participation and gardening achievement. In August this year, Ryde in Bloom’s passionate volunteers will be showing off their commitment to a greener, healthier Britain. They will lead RHS Britain in Bloom judges on a tour of local projects and initiatives in the hope of being awarded Gold at the annual award ceremony in October.
In recognition of challenges some RHS Britain in Bloom 2016 UK finalists face as a result of the recent floods, the RHS has created a new award to honour those who have battled against adversity. The RHS discretionary award for overcoming adversity will recognise those groups that have worked in difficult circumstances to put the bloom back into their towns, villages and cities across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Jersey and Guernsey.
Councillor Phil Warren, Chair of Ryde in Bloom said ” this is a truly fantastic opportunity for community groups and residents to continue the good work of improving the amenity and environment of Ryde – a town with aspirations to continue growing its community spirit by working together in all things horticultural”.
Andrea Van Sittart, RHS Head of Community Outreach, said: “We would like to congratulate Ryde in Bloom for reaching the UK finals of RHS Britain in Bloom. It’s a tremendous achievement and illustrates the groups’ impressive commitment to improving their local environment. “Volunteers of all ages and all walks of life participate in Bloom, making extraordinary efforts to improve streets and neighbourhoods in towns, villages and cities across Britain. It is vital we celebrate and recognise their efforts to strengthen their communities and inspire others to get involved.”
Britain in Bloom groups are assessed on a wide range of initiatives, such as the maintenance of parks and communal gardens, the management of natural spaces, community campaigns to promote recycling and environmental awareness, and projects involving local residents and schools.