Council Celebrates Winners of the ‘Best Kept Garden’ Awards

The awards ceremony was hosted by David Maxwell, presenter of BBC Gardeners’ Corner on BBC Radio Ulster and Editor of The Irish Garden magazine, recognising the Borough’s leading examples of sustainable, wildlife-friendly, and biodiverse gardening.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said, “It’s fantastic to see so many wonderful gardens created by our residents. For many, gardening is more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle that brings happiness, wellbeing, and a deeper connection with nature.

“Whether it’s tending to plants on a windowsill or cultivating a large allotment, it’s inspiring to see such creativity and passion across our borough. The Best Kept Garden Awards are a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who make Antrim and Newtownabbey greener, more vibrant, and more welcoming. Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists.”

The prestigious title of ‘Best of the Best’ was awarded to Colin Mitchell for his outstanding garden in Ballyclare, which impressed judges with its creativity, attention to detail, and environmentally conscious approach.

Judges commended the exceptional standard of entries, praising the gardeners’ dedication to sustainability and their contribution to enhancing the local environment. This year’s competition placed particular emphasis on gardens that support biodiversity through wildlife-friendly planting and innovative design.

Winners and runners-up were announced by Mr Maxwell and presented with certificates and gift vouchers by the Mayor.

Award winners by category are as follows;

Best Kept Garden:

1. First place: Colin Mitchell
2. Runner up: Caroline McMillan

Best Kept Commercial Premises:

1. First place: Neillsbrook Fold
2. Runner up: Maine Fold

Best Kept School:

1. First place Primary School: Creavery Primary School
2. Runner up Primary School: Moneynick Primary School

Most Wildlife Friendly Planting:

1. First place: Lynn Moran
2. Runner up: Rosemary Blair

Most Sustainable Planting:

1. First place: Karen Nickell
2. Runner up: Monkstown Village Gardens

Best Kept Front Garden/Container:

1. First place: David Smyth
2. Runners up: Colin Mitchell

Best Kept Allotments:

1. First place: FunkyKids Workshop
2. Runner up: Colin Geddis

Best Kept Community Planting:

1. First place: Monkstown Village Garden
2. Runner up: Colin Geddis

The Best of the Best: Colin Mitchell