Community groups in Peasedown St John are being given the chance to take part in the biggest horticultural project in EuropeSouth West in Bloom, part of the national Britain in Bloom initiative, is held every year to showcase and recognise some of the best-looking gardens and landscaped community green spaces across the region.
Peasedown St John’s Bath and North East Somerset Councillors, Karen Walker and Sarah Bevan (Independent), are coordinating the village’s entry into the competition.
Cllr Walker said: “South West in Bloom is one of eighteen regional competitions that make up Britain in Bloom. The aim of the community groups and businesses that take part, is to improve and regenerate our local environments and neighbourhoods. This can be through the imaginative planting of trees, shrubs, flowers and landscaping, conservation and recycling projects, and to sweep away the eyesores that blight our streets, such as litter, graffiti and vandalism.
“We’ve seen neighbouring communities such as Midsomer Norton and Radstock achieve success in the competition, now it’s time for Peasedown to show what it can do!”
Just recently, South West in Bloom Secretary, Denise James, visited Peasedown St John to discuss the village’s entry with the councillors.
Cllr Bevan said: “In Bloom allows us to be as creative as we like. As well as the traditional side of the competition, such as well-kept gardens and colourful flower beds, we can also demonstrate our success with community clean-ups, fixing broken fencing, and restoring dirty street signs.
“Cllr Walker and I are keen to hear from community groups, businesses and
individuals who want to show off their skills and talents.”
The councillors are inviting villagers to an ‘Expression of Interest’ meeting on Saturday, 12th November, 10.30 a.m. at St John’s Community Room, St John’s Close (BA2 8JG, next to Albert Avenue).
Regional Representative, Denise James, will be on hand to advise and answer questions.
The councillors will talk through the competition guidelines, rules and expectations. Those interested in taking part will then have several months to plant and prepare for Peasedown St John’s entry next Spring, with judges visiting the village in July 2017.
South West in Bloom is part of Britain in Bloom, which is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society and is focused on Horticultural Achievement, Environmental Responsibility and Community Participation.
For more details, come along to the meeting on Saturday, 12th November, or contact: Cllr Karen Walker on: 07968 401447, email: [email protected] or call Cllr Sarah Bevan: 07792 379850, or email: [email protected]