Stonehouse is hoping to cement its reputation as one of Britain’s most beautiful small towns as volunteers make a final push ahead of visits from both regional and national Britain in Bloom judges this month.
Members of Stonehouse in Bloom have been working throughout the year to transform the town with colourful flower displays, hanging baskets and community planting projects, with judging taking place on July 24 and July 29.
After being crowned Best Small Town in the UK in the 2024 Britain in Bloom Finals, the volunteer group is now aiming to repeat the achievement and secure another national title.
Chair of Stonehouse in Bloom, Pam Swain, said preparations have reached their busiest stage.
“This is the busiest time of year for us, but it is also immensely rewarding. We are a small group of volunteers, but we try to make a big difference to the town and the lovely comments we get from people as we tend to the beds and baskets always give us a boost.
“To win such a prestigious national competition two years ago was an amazing moment for us, and we have all pulled together as a community to try and impress the judges once again.”
The volunteer-led organisation is supported by Stonehouse Town Council, local businesses, community groups and residents. Judges will assess not only the town’s floral displays but also its environmental improvements, community involvement and horticultural excellence.
Stonehouse has enjoyed remarkable success in recent years, winning Gold in the Heart of England in Bloom competition every year since 2017 and being named the region’s Best Small Town every year since 2018.
This year, the town will once again represent the Heart of England region in the national Britain in Bloom competition, competing against Alderley Edge, Edwinstowe, Goring-on-Thames, Sawtry, Randalstown and Wareham.
Pam said the unpredictable weather had presented fresh challenges, but volunteers had adapted.
“The weather has been a challenge this year, but we are working hard to adapt and have had great support in watering from grounds staff Paul and Tony from the Town Council.
“To reflect the changing climate and how we have responded to it, we will be showing the judges how we are becoming more climate resilient, particularly our Dry Bed Garden, which contains drought-tolerant and drought-resistant plants.
“Our Horticultural Planning Group is also taking into consideration all the challenges faced with extremes of wet and dry weather to help inform our strategy moving forward.”
The group is also keen to welcome new volunteers.
“Anyone is welcome to join us – no gardening experience is required – as we have a range of different tasks throughout the year, especially in the run-up to judging.”
For more information about Stonehouse in Bloom or to get involved, visit the group’s website.
