Merton’s Success at ‘In Bloom Awards’

The London Borough of Merton faced stiff competition and was named one of the top five finalists for the National Britain in Bloom competition. Merton was named one of the top five boroughs in Britain for the Large City award which was announced on 3 October. The Britain in Bloom competition centres on the efforts made by the community as a whole.

Although Merton did not win Britain in Bloom, consolation came with victories in the London in Bloom competition two days later on 5 October.

The Clearly trophy was awarded to Wimbledon Village for the Best street or Shopping centre in London. Villaggio Italiano of Wimbledon Village was awarded joint second place for the Restaurant Trophy. Merton also received 30 certificates of excellence.

Merton also celebrated its own success at the council run Merton in Bloom and Leisure Garden and Allotment competitions on 9 October which saw the bringing together the best of the borough’s gardeners. Entries came from those who have large allotments to those with window boxes.

The Challenge Trophy for Leisure Garden and Allotment competition went to Francis Yarham who has won for the last eight years and has a total of nine victories in this category.

Sue Assinen, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: “This is an incredible achievement for Merton and we’re very proud of our Borough with its many gardens, parks and commons. Individual effort in floral displays in front gardens, public houses and businesses adds substantially to the colour and attractiveness of the environment.”

All of the awards are part of Britain in Bloom which urges communities up and down the country to improve the appearance of their environment. Since it began in the early 1960’s, it has become the biggest horticultural competition in Europe.

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