Melksham strikes gold in South West in Bloom awards

Melksham has once again come out on top in the South West in Bloom awards, winning gold for the sixth time.

The town won gold in the Portman Cup category, which judges towns of a similar size.

Conigre Mead Nature Reserve and the Community Larder were graded as ‘outstanding’ in the ‘In Your Neighbourhood’ category. Church Walk, The Friends Garden, Canon Square, the War Memorial, the Prince of Wales Garden and the Market Place flags also received special mentions.

Judging took place in July, when Bloom judge Terry Porter visited the town to view floral and horticultural displays and meet members of the public.

Melksham in Bloom volunteer Terri Welch said, “Bloom has to send him a portfolio beforehand. In this we can show aspects of the town or spring displays that he will not see on judging day.

“We also work out a route that we take him around. This means that we make sure everything is looking good, all graffiti removed, bus shelters cleaned and the railings painted.”

The regional competition, part of Britain in Bloom, is run by the Royal Horticultural Society and last year celebrated its 60th anniversary.

“One important part of the competition is community,” said Terri. “This is where we score highly. Our community supports the entry, and we try to make sure that the judge has the opportunity to meet people as we take him around.

“The judge can decide en route to enter other places that he feels deserve a special mention. This is how The Tavern came first as best decorated pub in the South West, and The Bear came second. Naturally we are delighted. We might take their displays for granted, but they really are stunning. Well done Melksham.”

Terri travelled to Torquay for the awards presentation on Wednesday 8th October. She said, “On the day of the presentation the hall was packed with groups waiting to hear if their work had been rewarded. The Mayor of Torquay was joined by Lady Emma Fellowes. Lady Emma and her husband have supported South West in Bloom for many years and it is Lady Emma who is the main person handing out awards, cups, flags and certificates. I was delighted to collect our flag and later on the awards for the two pubs.

“Entering the competition is hard work and it is very much a community effort, with Bloom, individuals and groups and the town council team all playing their part.”