Silver Gilt for Melksham in Britain in Bloom South West

Melksham has once again won a Silver Gilt award in Britain in Bloom South West.

Members of the Bloom in Melksham Committee who put the entry together went to the awards presentation in Dartmouth to collect the award on behalf of the many hundreds of people who contributed their horticultural and cleaning skills throughout the year.

Kathy Iles, chair of the Bloom in Melksham Committee said, “Judges were very impressed with Melksham and could see the great improvements in the town from last year, noting particularly the quality of the fantastic flowers throughout the town and the high level of community pride and involvement throughout Melksham.

“They were really impressed with the Conigre Mead Nature Reserve, Mr Bruce Petty’s immaculate garden which won Best Garden in Melksham in Blook, and business such as Sparkles Window Cleaning who help wash bus shelters and street signs to keep Melksham looking great all year round.”

As well as the overall award, the following ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ areas in Melksham received awards: Berryfield Allotment Gardens – ‘Establishing’; St Michaels Church Grounds – ‘Developing’; Briansfield Allotment Gardens – ‘Thriving’; Waitrose Corner – ‘Thriving’; Aloeric Primary School – ‘Thriving’; The Conigre Mead Nature Reserve – ‘Thriving’; Bowerhill Residents Action Group Picnic Area – ‘Outstanding’; Shaw CE Primary School – ‘Outstanding’;

Melksham’s portfolio was also nominated for the Best Portfolio.

Bewleys were nominated for best floral decorated business in the South West. And The Bear was Runner Up for Best Floral Pub in the South West.

Kathy Iles added, “It is great to be recognised with this award. It shows that the people of Melksham have a town that we can be proud of, and so many people, groups, business work hard all year round to keep Melksham looking great.

“We especially appreciate the support of Melksham Town Council, Melksham Without Parish Council and Wiltshire Council, who all play really important parts in looking after our wonderful town.

“Even though the award is great recognition, what the committee is really concerned about is keeping Melksham beautiful all year round. If anyone would like to join in with plans for next year, get in touch with Miriam.zaccarelli@melkshamtown.co.uk.”