Scarva second in bloom competition

SCARVA is once again In Bloom, having scooped the runner-up prize in the annual competition's "Small Village" category.

The village took the top spot last year but came second to Loughgall in the 2010 Translink Ulster in Bloom contest last week.

Banbridge’s Solitude Park was also given a special award for its “Outstanding Presentation”, while Donaghcloney and Banbridge town both came third in the “Large Village” and “Town” categories respectively.

Translink Chairwoman Veronica Palmer said this year has been a particularly successful one.

“2010 marks the 32nd year of Ulster in Bloom and attracted 130 entries representing local councils, community organisations and businesses as well as 36 bus and train stations.

“It is great to see that many areas have sustained their impressive flair for horticulture and retained their Ulster in Bloom title and it is also encouraging to welcome newcomers into the top spots demonstrating the growing appeal of the competition.”

Councillor John Mathews, President of the Local Government Association (NILGA), said, “The competition encourages the tasteful use of flowers, shrubs and trees, in clean and tidy landscapes.

“A well maintained place makes a statement about ourselves as residents and how we live. A pleasant, attractive environment can also be very useful in encouraging tourists to visit, and in influencing potential investors to establish new businesses.

The Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition is organised by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association with the support of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.