Green fingered community groups, residents and businesses celebrated success at the Merton in Bloom awards ceremony on 18 October 2011.

Following the borough’s entry into the regional London in Bloom competition, Merton’s gardens, allotments, hanging baskets and the like, were recognised and rewarded locally with trophies and certificates presented by the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Gilli Lewis-Lavender.

Based upon horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation, the categories were judged by members of local allotment and horticultural societies.

Groups and individuals continue to get involved each year to help keep Merton a beautiful borough, and North Mitcham Parks Friends group host their own ‘In Bloom’ awards covering Graveney & Figges Marsh wards in Mitcham. Local councillors announce the event in their Spring newsletters and encourage residents to take part.

Cabinet member for environmental sustainability and regeneration, Councillor Andrew Judge said: “Merton in Bloom impresses every year. It’s great to see so many local businesses and community groups taking part alongside residents. Congratulations to all our winners, and everyone who took part.”

For more information on the competition and a full list of winners visit http://www.merton.gov.uk/mertoninbloom.

Notes to editors:

· Best Front Garden over 20sqm – Chatt Bhikhari, Malvern Close
· Best Front Garden under 20sqm – Clarice Mitchell, Streatham Road
· Best School Wildlife Competition – The Priory C of E Primary School
· Best Balcony – Ekaterini Kisby, Church Walk
· Winner age category 3 – 6 years: Anjali Purrunsing
· Winner age category 7 – 10 years: Ali Alasakkf
· Winner age category 11 – 14 years: Safa Islam
· Best Bloomin’ Pub – The Windmill Public House, Mitcham
· Best Floral Allotment Garden – Plot 74 The Paddock, Ms S Spencer
· Best Hanging Basket – Baitul Futuh Mosque, Morden
· Best Commercial Premises – The Wimbledon Club, Wimbledon
· Best Community Garden – Mitcham Parish Church

Allotment and Leisure Gardens

· Best in Merton – Plot 41 Tamworth Farm, Jamie Dantes
· Best in Mitcham – Plot 41 Tamworth Farm, Jamie Dantes
· Best in Morden – Plot 4 Thurlston Road, Mr Anandarajah
· Best in Wimbledon – Plot 28 Cottenham Park, Mr Wyatt
· Best in Cottenham Park – Plot 28 Cottenham Park, Mr Wyatt
· Best in Durnsford Road – Plot 15, Mr Moloney
· Best in The Paddock – Plot 35, Mr Fancourt
· Best Floral Allotment – Plot 74 The Paddock, Ms S Spencer

Photos are available upon request

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Press Contact:
Leoni Munslow
Communications Officer
London Borough of Merton
020 8545 4654