Lisburn emerges triumphant in the war of the roses

The Awards celebrate gardening excellence and Northern Ireland’s top green-fingered talent was officially recognised at the awards presentation in Londonderry.

Local councils, businesses, community groups, bus and rail stations were presented with special awards for their efforts to improve the appearance of their areas using beautiful floral and plant displays.

Addressing the winners in her capacity as a member of the Northern Ireland Local Government Association, Cllr Jenny Palmer said:

“The competition gives us the drive and the opportunity to support our citizens in making our cities, towns and villages cleaner, tidier, and more enjoyable places in which to live. It stirs our enthusiasm which can and has transformed the places in which we live, work and play; instilling a sense of pride and inspiring us to entice others to visit.

“To the winners we say thank you for leading by example and congratulations on your achievements. The Local Government Association Northern Ireland encourages your ongoing commitment.”

Duncan McCausland, Board Member, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, said: “With so many events, celebrations and commemorations this year, we will be welcoming a significant number of visitors to our shores and I commend Ulster in Bloom for helping to showcase Northern Ireland, both visually and aesthetically, in the best possible light”.