Bloom contest is ‘opportunity to enhance borough’

Pictured at the launch of the 2014 Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition are l-r Stephen Daye, Carrickfergus Borough Council, Roger Esdale, Translink NI Railways Supervisor, David Brown, Brighter Whitehead, Tony Depledge, Translink Board Member, Cllr Evelyne Robinson MBE, NI Local Government Association Vice President, Arthur Hamilton, Translink Area Manager, Cllr May Beattie, Carrickfergus Borough Council, Bill Pollock and Moira Rodgers, Brighter Whitehead. INCT 27-732-CON

The contest, which was officially launched in Ballymena last week, was attended by a number of representatives from Carrickfergus.

The town’s involvement is doubly significant this year due to the borough’s two entries in the 2014 Britain in Bloom contest.

Alderman Beattie said: “As Chairperson of the Parks and Countryside Sub Committee of Carrickfergus Borough Council, I believe Translink Ulster in Bloom is a wonderful opportunity for our borough to enhance its surroundings.

“Carrickfergus and Whitehead were selected by Translink Ulster in Bloom to represent Northern Ireland in the 50th RHS Britain in Bloom finals.

“[They] were selected for engaging every element of the community, for demonstrating an exceptional commitment to helping the environment and for horticultural excellence.

“The RHS Britain in Bloom judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share arrive in Carrickfergus on Monday August 4, with Whitehead being judged by Mark Wasilewski and Brendan Mowforth on Friday August 8.”

Translink Ulster in Bloom is in its 36th year of the annual horticultural competition which has attracted 168 entries representing 25 council areas, local community groups, businesses, bus and train stations. All are preparing to impress judges with beautiful plant and floral presentations.