Friends are getting ready to wow Bloom judges at the first attempt (From Ilkley Gazette)

Friends are getting ready to wow Bloom judges at the first attempt

7:00am Friday 27th July 2012 in Local news

Intensive efforts are being put in to make sure Addingham comes up to the wide-ranging criteria expected by Britain In Bloom judges next week.

The village’s first attempt at a prestigious national In Bloom title will come to a head when two Royal Horticultural Society judges pay a visit on August 2.

The entry is spearheaded by Addingham Garden Friends, a group of volunteers strongly supported by Addingham Parish Council, Addingham Civic Society, Bradford Council, the Addingham Allotments and Gardens Association, the Gala Committee, village school, the George Martin Trust and other local organisations.

Residents are encouraged to make the most of their front gardens, hanging baskets, pots and tubs outside the front door, and to sweep and weed pavement frontages and side alleys.

The Garden Friends are also asking residents to be vigilant about litter and dog mess and tidy away wheelie bins, where possible.

Neighbours of those currently finding their gardens too much to tackle alone are urged to lend a hand.

The judges’ primary concern will be how well plants are chosen, located and maintained in the variety of small public gardens and open spaces throughout the village, say the Garden Friends However, they will also evaluate the overall appearance of Addingham, evidence of a responsible attitude to the environment and indications that the whole community has been involved.

A portfolio and a short presentation will show the judges what efforts take place throughout the year.