Bumper crop of entries as garden awards blossom more than ever

Winners were chosen from a record-number of entries from residents in each of the town’s Neighbourhood Partnerships, across five categories: best garden, best multi-use garden, best balcony, patio or small space, best first time entry and best communal area. There was also a special commendation this year which went to Mr Nixon for his volunteer work at Bramley Sunnyside Infant School’s Vegetable Garden.

The ceremony culminated with the reveal of the ‘Best Garden in Competition’ and ‘Mayor’s Choice’ winners.

Darota Zarod of Herringthorpe received the overall winner prize, chosen by Councillor Beck, Cabinet Member for Housing. And for the first time, in the awards’ history, Mayor Councillor Eve Rose Keenan picked five gardens to receive the Mayor’s Choice award.

Mr Thompson of Parkgate, Mr Sherburn and Mr Turner of Swinton, Rachel Johnson of East Dene, Mrs Bailey of Thrybergh, Mr Lennok of Kimberworth and Mr Sherburn and Mr Turner who picked up a prize on behalf of residents at The Crescent, Swinton, all impressed the Mayor with their green-fingered talents.

Cllr Beck said: “The tremendous effort of the tenants is a great contribution to their local community, and the competition is a way for the Council to recognise these beautiful gardens. They are an inspiration to take pride in their homes and neighbourhood.

“Without the tenants’ involvement, this would not be the same great event, and with the amount of entries growing each year, we expect next year to be even bigger and better, and it may even out-grow the Town Hall!”

Mayor Cllr Eve Rose Keenan added: “I am very impressed with what each of the entries have achieved. There are some incredible stories behind these gardens, and through talking to residents I have seen what gardening means for many people – beautiful gardens add real value to the local area, but the care, creativity and pride people take in maintaining their gardens can have a positive impact on all aspects of life. This is why I struggled to pick just one winner as my choice! All the entries are a credit to the borough.”

If you’ve been inspired by this year’s winners why not enter your garden or outdoor space in next year’s competition?

Entries usually open from the spring, but it’s never too early to start getting your garden competition ready. Start preparing your garden for autumn and winter now, and think about how to make the most of your outdoor space to wow our judges next year.

To learn more about improving your area through your local Neighbourhood Partnership Team or to enter next year’s Garden Competition ring or email below.

Email: [email protected]

Call: 01709 334604