Gold for Goole in Yorkshire in Bloom 2017 Awards
Linda Thornton, Goole in Bloom Secretary, Brian Robertson of Goole Town Council, Gerald Holmes from Business in Goole along with Leigh Johnson, East Riding Local Growth Co-ordinator ,were all delighted to be invited to represent Goole at the Britain in Bloom: Yorkshire award ceremony in York last week. Even more so when the announcement came that Goole had won gold.
Jean Kitchen, Chair of Goole in Bloom, was unable to attend the ceremony due to illness but was delighted with the gold. “For many years Goole in Bloom relied upon volunteers to green up the urban landscape, create town centre planting displays, develop school based environmental projects and enhance the physical environment. This year, to celebrate our tenth anniversary we really wanted to win gold for Goole. I’m absolutely delighted and want to thank everyone who helped us win this wonderful award, from our volunteers to Goole’s maintenance team who’ve created some incredible displays that have wowed so many people. We’re especially grateful to all our business sponsors who continue to support town centre displays and baskets. I’d also particularly like to give special thanks to Tesco for their Bags of Help funding; this meant we could work with partners on many projects without worrying about where funding would come from. It was a fantastic contribution and has assisted us in creating a legacy for Goole.
The group’s ‘Going for Gold 2017’campaign aimed to create a 12 month programme of activity including the purchase of essential plants, additional greenery and equipment to maintain and enhance planting across a number of areas in Goole. They worked closely with Goole’s schools, community groups, residents and businesses to enhance interest in environmental issues, develop green spaces and create a desirable destination that draws on the appeal of its beautiful natural setting.
Britain in Bloom is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society and is the largest horticultural campaign in Europe; each year it grows in size and importance involving more people, groups and organisations creating lasting improvements to local environments. Yorkshire in Bloom showcases environmental excellence across the region; it brings together communities with one common aim, to improve their environment. Annual competitions encourage communities to make a positive and lasting improvement to their local environment, and it is not just about planting flowers and hanging baskets.
Leigh Johnson explained:
“The very nature of Yorkshire in Bloom encourages and develops community spirit and civic pride along with promoting responsibility for planting, cleanliness and maintenance. This helps to boost the local economy through increased visitor numbers, stimulates voluntary work and increases cooperation between community groups. It’s also a wonderful whole community approach to address issues such as sustainability, recycling, minimising waste and energy conservation. Gold for Goole is superb and recognises all the efforts of many people who’ve worked diligently to bring that gold home.”
The competition is assessed by judges on criteria developed by the RHS in consultation with the Regions. Marks are awarded and are related to standards of Gold, Silver Gilt, Silver and Bronze. Awards are announced and presented at the Yorkshire in Bloom annual awards ceremony each September.
Goole in Bloom’s AGM will take place next month to assess the year and celebrate the wonderful win for the town.
