Recognition for local villages

Rachael Kennedy is pictured at Belfast City Council's Mary Peters Track which won a Translink Ulster in Bloom Special Award for Biodiversity. Pic by Brian Morrison.

This annual horticultural competition, now in its 39th year, encourages cities, towns and villages right across Northern Ireland to look their best, boosting civic pride through beautiful plant and floral displays.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr John Scott, commented; “With over 150 entries during the 2016 awards, I am delighted that our towns and villages throughout the borough were recognised, In the village section, Ballynure received a well-deserved third place with nearby Ballyeaston claiming third place in the small village category. “These awards are testament to the hard work of our staff and local community, who put so much into enhancing and preserving our outdoor spaces.”

The Ulster in Bloom judging panel comprises professional horticulturists, lecturers, florists, members of Conservation Volunteers and judges from the NI Group of Flower Arranging Societies. The 2017 competition is now open for entries.

Commenting on the awards, Translink Chairman Frank Hewitt said: “Congratulations to all the Translink Ulster in Bloom champions. As we approach the 40th anniversary year, it’s wonderful to see the competition’s continued appeal with 156 entries covering all 11 council areas.

“Like Translink, Ulster in Bloom connects people in local communities right across Northern Ireland and aims to make local villages, towns and cities more attractive places to live and visit, boosting civic pride. Both are committed to supporting a more sustainable and prosperous society that respects the local environment.

“We look forward to welcoming all our champions back to defend their titles when we launch the 2017 competition during Bus and Train Week, June 5 to June 11 2017.”

The judging panel comprises professional horticulturists, lecturers, florists, members of Conservation Volunteers and Judges with NI Group of Flower Arranging Societies.

Ulster in Bloom is organised by the Northern Ireland local Government Association (NILGA).

If you’re interested in getting involved in the 2017 competition, contact NILGA on (0)28 9079 8972.