In Bloom UK finalists ready to compete

Eight entrants from Ulster will complete in the UK-wide competition.

Ballymena and Cullybackey will be joined by Belfast City, Derry City, Donaghmore, Hillsborough, Newcastle and Randalstown. The Ulster entrants will join 71 other Britain in Bloom finalists competing to be crowned one of the cleanest, greenest and most beautiful places in the UK.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, Councillor Audrey Wales MBE, said: “I am delighted that Ballymena and Cullybackey have been selected to compete in the 2017 RHS Britain in Bloom competition.

“Ballymena will be judged in the Large Town category. Cullybackey will be judged in the Large Village category. Both were chosen for their commitment to environmental responsibility, their high levels of community participation and their outstanding gardening achievements.

“In August RHS Britain in Bloom judges will visit Ballymena and Cullybackey and tour the area as they bid to win a top award. The winners will be announced at the Britain in Bloom awards ceremony in Llandudno, North Wales on October 27.”

Mark Maher, Ulster in Bloom Co-ordinator, Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NGLA) said: “Across the 11 councils, 2016 was another fantastic year for Translink Ulster in Bloom. Building on this, NILGA is extremely proud to have such strong representation going forward for the 2017 RHS Britain in Bloom competition.”