A community garden project team in Amersham has won a national competition.
In September, Amersham was selected as one of 46 UK villages, towns and cities to enter the Britain in Bloom final, which this year had a focus on sustainability and biodiversity.
The competition aims to inspire community groups to make positive changes to their local areas through horticultural and environmental projects.
In a ceremony at Lindley Hall in London on October 10, Steve Catanach received the Overall Winner award on behalf of Amersham in Bloom, while the rest of the team heard the news in a live reveal on BBC’s The One Show.
Recognised for their efforts across all scoring criteria, Amersham in Bloom were particularly commended by Britain in Bloom judges for their contribution to improving the local environment, for which they received a Sustainable Gardening Award. The team increased wildflower areas by 30 per cent, replaced annual beds with perennial pollinators, and planted more than 8,500 new trees.
Britain in Bloom judges Richard Budge and Mary Bagley said: “The engagement of the community brings great cohesion and pride in Amersham. It exuded from everyone on the tour – volunteers, community groups, businesses, local authorities, and householders.”
For their work with local schools and young people, Amersham also received a Children and Young People’s Participation Award.
Steve Catanach, Amersham in Bloom member and town clerk at Amersham Town Council, said: “Amersham is sparkling like never before, which is a testament to the effort and determination of the dedicated Bloom volunteers, 1st Chesham Bois Scout Leaders (led by Andy Honour), the many local businesses that supported our efforts, local schools, Buckinghamshire Council, community groups, and my wonderful colleagues at the council.
“It is a privilege to work with so many inspiring individuals and groups.”
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