Sights set on silver

The organisers of this year’s Newark entry in the East Midlands in Bloom competition are hoping to have impressed judges with the town’s floral attributes.

Judges were given guided tours of gardens and allotments around the town.

Among the sites visited were Sconce and Devon Park, Newark Parish Church and the Market Place.

Judge Mr Richard Tomlinson said it was always a joy to visit towns and see the best they had to offer.

He said: “East Midlands in Bloom encourages people to look after their towns, often for the benefit of local business people, because if the town looks good it brings more business in.

“It’s not just about gardening but making a town a nicer place to live.”

Judge Mr Chris Beal said only half the score was for horticultural excellence. The rest was awarded for community involvement and environmental responsibility.

Mr George Wilkinson, Newark in Bloom chairman, said a lot of effort had gone into this year’s entry and they were hoping for a silver award.

“It helps to generate a sense of pride in the town,” he said.

Mrs Kate Macklam, the Newark in Bloom secretary, said there had been financial cutbacks this year but everyone involved had worked hard.

She said: “When the judges arrived they were taken on a route we had set so we knew there would be flowers in bloom.

“I am involved with St Catherine’s Close which is an example of community front gardens in Newark and I got the impression they were quite impressed.”

The awards are presented in September.

Mrs Macklam said they were keen to get more people involved in the Newark in Bloom group.

Anyone wishing to take part in preparation for Newark’s 2011 East Midlands in Bloom entry should contact Mr Wilkinson on 01636 671413.