St Helens shines for judges
After months of dedication, St Helens shone in the summer sunshine for the North West in Bloom judges this year.
As the regional category of long-running environmental competition, Britain in Bloom, the event brought together local residents, groups, schools and businesses. Throughout the year, everyone worked together to plant flowers, grow fruit and vegetables, teach children to grow and cook healthy meals, and most importantly bring out the best in community spirit.
Volunteer judge Alex Wright said: "It's lovely to come back and see how far every neighbourhood has come since last year. The plants and gardens aren't the only things that have grown, there's a really lovely sense of community in all the places we visit too."
Peter Clark of Derbyshire Hill Family Centre said: "We're really proud of our community garden, and how much everyone enjoys it. We already have a dedicated space to help residents with dementia and we're now looking to create a special area for children to play and learn in, as well as a wildlife area, sustainable plant beds and a bright rainbow garden."
A truly collaborative effort, the North West in Bloom route incorporated Queensland and Havannah Lane Allotments, the PERTH Centre, Jelly Tots Play Group, the Horseshoe Pub, Derbyshire Family Centre in Parr, Field Road Community Centre in Four Acre and a number of local groups in Rainford.
Kieron Newcombe of Havannah Lane Allotments said: "With Helena's help, we've been able to transform a derelict site into a real community space. They've helped us buy equipment, apply for a Big Lottery Fund grant and we also have a lovely cabin to meet in come rain or shine."
Graham Ellis, Neighbourhood Initiatives Officer, said: "North West in Bloom really proves how lovely Helena neighbourhoods are to live in. We'd like to congratulate all of the groups involved for their fantastic work and for providing safe places for local residents of all ages to get involved and learn something new."
The groups will find out the results of the judging in October at a glittering event at at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre.
If you'd like to find out more about activities in your area, contact Graham Ellis on 01744 675776 or email graham.ellis@helenapartnerships.co.uk
14 July 2015
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