Council scoops award at Garden Show Ireland

Attending the event was Nicola Wilson (Head of Economic Development), Barry Patience (Head of Environmental Services), Eva Keenan (Project Officer), Arlene Barton (Business Engagement Project Officer) and Jonathan Ellis (StreetScape Manager)

A festival of flowers, food and fun, the Allianz Garden Show Ireland took place in Antrim Castle Garden’s from 6th–8th May.

This year a special “Best of Northern Ireland” area was created where a few local authorities created a showcase garden or horticultural display embracing Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink.

Economic Development and Technical Services employees from Council designed and built a show-stopping plot showcasing two of the borough’s world renowned Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) products – Lough Neagh Eels and the Armagh Bramley Apples.

The picturesque garden also included themes of recycling – with water features constructed using recycled dumped tyres - sustainability, local food production and stunning landscapes – reflecting the ethos of the borough.

These key features helped Council secure a silver award for ‘Best of NI Local Produce Garden’.

Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Darryn Causby, said: “We are delighted to secure this brilliant award. Council officers worked extremely hard to develop a beautiful garden encompassing the world class local produce on offer throughout the area.

“It was the perfect opportunity to showcase all we have to offer as the Food Heartland of NI to the thousands of visitors to the show – well done to all involved.”