Best in Britain bid by Carrick and Whitehead

Whitehead’s green-fingered volunteers are putting the finishing touches to their Britain in Bloom effort ahead of tomorrow’s (Friday’s) judging.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Aug 2014, 11:05 BST
Britain in Bloom judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share with Alderman May Beattie at The Courtyard, Carrickfergus. INCT 32-791-CONBritain in Bloom judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share with Alderman May Beattie at The Courtyard, Carrickfergus. INCT 32-791-CON
Britain in Bloom judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share with Alderman May Beattie at The Courtyard, Carrickfergus. INCT 32-791-CON

Led by Brighter Whitehead, with support from Carrickfergus Borough Council and Whitehead Wombles, the town is in the running in the Small Town category of the prestigious event.

Judges Mark Wasilewski and Brendan Mowforth will look at horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation.

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It follows a visit earlier in the week by Royal Horticultural Society judges to Carrick, which is a Large Town competitor.

Carrick joins Belper, Colwyn Bay, Congleton, Farnham, Malvern, Perth, Truro, Wisbech, Alton and Durham in the same category while Whitehead takes its place alongside Cranbrook, Dunnington, Pitlochry and Sedgefield in the Small Town category.

RHS judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share, accompanied by Alderman May Beattie, chairperson of Parks, Countryside and Amenities sub-committee, met community representatives in Carrick on Monday and went on a tour of local projects.

Welcoming the visit, Alderman Beattie said: “It’s always so useful when they give us advice on ways we can improve our public spaces even more. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers who help keep our borough tidy and beautiful.

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“Our borough is renowned for its floral displays which are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, and play a critical role in bringing people and investment to the town. However, it’s important to say that issues such as cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement are equally as important.”

Carrickfergus and Whitehead were selected from more than 1,000 entrants to take part in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom UK Finals 2014, as the campaign celebrates its fiftieth anniversary.

Stephanie Eynon, RHS Community Horticulture manager, said: “The awards are our opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and may I wish both Carrickfergus and Whitehead as well as every finalist the very best of luck in this golden anniversary year.”

Communities hope to receive a bronze, silver, silver-gilt or gold award.

Related topics:CarrickBritainBelper