2019 nib
competition results
2019 Northumbria in Bloom Main Awards & Results
Communities from across the North East came together on Wednesday 25th September at The Lancastrian Suite, Gateshead to recognise and celebrate all that they have collectively achieved in improving and transforming local environments across the whole of the region as part of this year’s Northumbria in Bloom competition.
The competition, now in its 55th year, is all about encouraging local communities to improve their areas through community gardening and sound environmental practises. It is part of the UK wide Britain in Bloom campaign run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
THE RESULTS
To quickly jump to a specific category of results simply select from the buttons below:
Our Guest Presenters
The guest presenters of the awards were Eileen Burn, immediate past Chairman of Northumbria in Bloom, and Christine Wright, RHS Community Outreach Adviser (North East).
Comperes were Marian Foster, BBC Radio Newcastle Garden Mania presenter, and Rob Germany. Around 400 of this year’s entrants were at the event to receive their awards.
Andrew Jackson, Chairman of Northumbria in Bloom said: “ It is so very easy when we turn on the television or radio, pick up a newspaper or view social media to get thoroughly depressed by all the ‘gloom and doom’ going on locally, nationally and internationally.
However I want to thank all the participants in the Northumbria in Bloom competition for all that they do to enhance and transform our small part of this wonderful planet we live on.
Through their magnificent efforts our spirits are lifted and pleasant, attractive and welcoming places are created for us all to live in, work in and visit. Participation in Northumbria in Bloom brings immense environmental and social benefits to the region”
MAIN COMPETITION AWARDS
BEST OVERALL ENTRY
The Percy Boydell Award
TANFIELD
“Tanfield is a small rural village in County Durham of around 100 households on a steep hillside with a history dating to Saxon times. It has a strong sense of identity in its modern role as an attractive, colourful commuter village through its widespread enthusiasm, passion, people and flower power which are its major strengths.
Tanfield in Bloom is the driving force focussing this community spirit to bring everyone together, young and old. It has lifted the image of the village giving everyone a sense of pride and achievement as it progressed each year with Northumbria in Bloom to gold medal level and now The Percy Boydell Trophy
MOST IMPROVED ENTRY
SEAHAM
“A vibrant seaside town with a proud past that is creatively re-inventing itself for life today. A range of different horticultural styles are evident through-out the town and there is much evidence of “art in the landscape”, celebrating its natural history and social heritage. The excellent and popular Marina provides one of many focal points for the visitor, along with the Terrace Green and it’s iconic “Tommy” statue”
BEST NEW ENTRY
The Whickham Award
MIDDLETON HALL RETIREMENT VILLAGE
“Middleton Hall Retirement Village is located on the outskirts of Darlington. The estate is set in approximately 20 acres of formal gardens and lawns with an additional 85 acres of surrounding woodland. The village has 200 residents to which it offers either independent living or residential care. The residents are encouraged to get involved with gardening with allotments, the greenhouse, the Mediterranean garden and herbaceous areas. Biodiversity, conservation and recycling issues are also addressed”
Please note:
Gold – outstanding, Silver Gilt – very good, Silver – good, Bronze – average, Merit – Fair
SMALL VILLAGES
TANFIELD
“Tanfield is a small rural village in County Durham of around 100 households on a steep hillside with a history dating to Saxon times. It has a strong sense of identity in its modern role as an attractive, colourful commuter village through its widespread enthusiasm, passion, people and flower power which are its major strengths. Tanfield in Bloom is the driving force focussing this community spirit giving everyone a sense of pride and achievement as it progressed each year to gold medal level which it has maintained since 2015”
- Middleton Hall Retirement Village – Gold
- Ovington – Silver Gilt
- Tanfield – Gold
VILLAGES
WASHINGTON VILLAGE
“Washington village is an unexpected oasis surrounded by a sea of industrial parks and modern suburbia. Its many trees and beautiful village centre make it easier to believe you are in a much more rural location. It is clear from the quality of the floral displays, the street furniture and shop displays that residents greatly appreciate the efforts of the Bloom team, all of which contribute to the charm of the village”
- Greatham – Gold
- Lesbury – Silver Gilt
- Middleton in Teesdale – Silver Gilt
- Monkton – Silver
- Norham – Bronze
- The Clarences – Bronze
- Washington Village – Gold
SMALL VILLAGES
TANFIELD
“Tanfield is a small rural village in County Durham of around 100 households on a steep hillside with a history dating to Saxon times. It has a strong sense of identity in its modern role as an attractive, colourful commuter village through its widespread enthusiasm, passion, people and flower power which are its major strengths. Tanfield in Bloom is the driving force focussing this community spirit giving everyone a sense of pride and achievement as it progressed each year to gold medal level which it has maintained since 2015”
Middleton Hall Retirement Village – Gold
Ovington – Silver Gilt
Tanfield – Gold
LARGE VILLAGES
HOLYWELL
“Holywell in the Seaton Valley has a rich mining and farming heritage. The line of the old waggon way and Holywell Dene are large areas of woodland creating a wildlife corridor which is a major asset to the area in terms of habitat. Many mature trees and large areas of grass in the village centre are beneficial too. The in-Bloom team have worked hard to make the village a colourful and neat and tidy environment. They have achieved brilliant results with the help of community volunteers and are very talented fund raisers to aid their cause”
- Coundon – Silver
- Fishburn – Silver
- Holywell – Gold
- Ord – Silver
- Seghill – Silver
SMALL TOWNS
SEDGEFIELD
“From past performance Sedgefield has a very high reputation to maintain and they certainly live up to that. With their professionalism and strong core team they have confidence in their ability to execute the plans they make for the year. They ensure inclusion of the residents and children in their work. The Bloom group’s influence and commitment to maintaining the high standards of the town is evident in every aspect and their strong relationship with the local council is a great benefit to the town”
- Corbridge – Gold
- Haltwhistle – Silver
- Middleton St George – Silver Gilt
- Nunthorpe – Silver
- Sacriston – Silver
- Sedgefield – Gold
- Waldridge – Silver Gilt
TOWNS
MORPETH
“Morpeth continues to demonstrate a consistently high standard in meeting the requirements of the Northumbria in Bloom judging criteria. This has been achieved by having a close working relationship between the various partner organisations developed over many years.
This year is the group’s 21st anniversary. The Town is very welcoming with colourful displays of seasonal planting interspersed with an increasing amount of permanent planting particularly on the roundabouts. Considerable effort has gone into ensuring that good environmental practice in water management, recycling, composting and grass cutting is carried out wherever possible. The success of the Morpeth in Bloom Group stems from their ability to co-ordinate the activities of the various partner organisations to achieve a single goal. This encompasses both public and private agencies and all different age groups but most especially the involvement of local schools”
- Alnwick – Gold
- Berwick upon Tweed – Gold
- Hexham – Silver Gilt
- Morpeth – Gold
LARGE TOWNS
BISHOP AUCKLAND
“Bishop Auckland continues to go from strength to strength and is making the most of the opportunities it has in the town and the fantastic support it is able to galvanise from the local community. The range and scope of the various projects, both planned and existing, is impressive and demonstrates a real commitment to the ethos of Bloom and both its natural and historic environment to the benefit of the wider community”
- Bishop Auckland – Gold
- Blyth – Silver Gilt
- Chester-le-Street – Silver Gilt
- Stanley – Silver
SMALL CITY
DURHAM
“Durham’s World Heritage status confirms it’s international importance but the local partnerships produce a beautiful, welcoming, vibrant city. The magnificent architecture is softened by abundant floral displays and the mature trees in the parks, gardens and colleges suggest a calm green woodland in the city. The move to wildflower planting and the wildlife corridor along the riverbanks benefit the natural world, and trials of battery powered tools and vehicles demonstrates a commitment to the future. Durham does not fail to impress!”
- Durham – Gold
URBAN COMMUNITY
BELMONT
“An urban community with many attractive private gardens and many out-standing community projects within it’s boundaries. The group are very aware of current environmental thinking as shown in the “Scrambles”, and two allotment sites. It provides attractive seasonal bedding for both Spring and Summer, as well as permanent planting areas”
- Belmont – Gold
COASTAL RESORT
SALTBURN BY THE SEA
“A thriving Bloom group that is well embedded in the town has raised the image of the town to a high level. The horticulture shows wide ranging taste and a deep insight into appropriate and relevant planting for today. Environmental responsibility is high on the agenda and its community participation is astonishing in its breadth and depth through-out the town. A top class entry with many fine features”
- Saltburn by the Sea – Gold
- Seaham – Gold
CITY CENTRE
DARLINGTON
“Darlington is a remarkably green city centre with many street trees as well as the numerous public parks, the cathedral grounds and the recently opened-up riverside. The ancient cathedral, handsome Victorian architecture and railway heritage are now balanced by a vibrant modern city culture, with numerous public events throughout the year”
- Darlington – Silver Gilt
- Sunderland – Silver Gilt
SPECIAL CATEGORY AWARDS
Community Champions
For a truly outstanding contribution over several years by individuals, whether salaried or volunteer, in support of Northumbria in Bloom.
Eddie Malarkey, Belmont –
Eddie has worked for Belmont Parish Council for about 25 years, tending the cemetery and flowerbeds. He engages voluntarily with local school children and less able residents, helping them plant flower tubs. In his own time he weeds and litter-picks and even paints the parish seats! He is always on the lookout for volunteers and new sponsors. He is a true friend of the parish and his cheerfulness and ‘can do’ attitude make him an asset to the parish, and our work with Northumbria in Bloom would not have been so successful without him. His obvious pride and dedication to his job and his willingness to go the extra mile make him a very worthy Community Champion.
Pam Phillips, Middleton in Teesdale –
Pam has been involved with the Middleton in Teesdale Bloomers since the start – so at least 17 years – and has been Chairperson for many of those years. Just by her presence in the village and being herself, Pam has a way of pulling all the diverse members of our community into supporting bloom. Her enthusiasm and commitment are infectious and people in the village often come up to her as we garden and compliment her on how lovely the village is looking, often donating money and/or plants there and then! Pam has an unshakeable passion for making the village beautiful – her tenacity, friendliness and kindness make her very special indeed.
Raymond Dixon, Morpeth –
Raymond has worked in horticulture since the age of 16 and has been looking after the planting in Sanderson Arcade since 2010. Year after year Raymond’s drive and vision has taken the centre from an obvious new build development into a horticultural delight. He goes the extra mile to ensure the service he provides is first class and his beautiful work is regularly praised by residents and visitors alike. He works hard to involve local volunteers and school children and we are proud of the vision, commitment and energy Raymond dedicates to Morpeth.
Best Business Park
NEWCASTLE BUSINESS PARK, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE – Gold
“Newcastle Business Park is situated on the banks of the River Tyne on the land once belonging to the Armstrong, Whitworth shipyards.
The Hadrian’s Cycleway and walkway, runs along the river bank on the edge of the site, with its art installation, information boards, seating and wonderful views offers employees a pleasant environment in which to enjoy their free time.
The creation of the wild flower meadow and wildlife corridor which include several ‘hibernariums’ along with the ongoing project of adding new herbaceous planting areas all of which are encouraging wildlife onto the site. The park has large areas covered with blocks and rows of mainly evergreen shrubberies with the effect being greatly softened by the introduction of cloud pruning”
Community Champions
ABBEYFIELDS FIRST SCHOOL, MORPETH – Gold
“This is a wonderful example of a ‘Forest School’ where outdoor activities including gardening are completely integrated with the teaching environment within the classroom.
The children are very knowledgeable about the plants they are growing and the problems wildlife can cause, for example deer eating the foliage in school garden plots
Best Care/Residential/Convalescent Home
Hospice or Day Centre
ST. CUTHBERT’S HOSPICE, DURHAM – Gold
“St. Cuthbert’s Sensory Garden cleverly uses raised beds to allow easy access to the plants and the water feature is very restful. The newly established shady garden will quickly mature and is a fine example of partnership-working, using the horticultural knowledge of the hospice ground staff and the muscle of Barclays volunteers!
The greenhouse enables residents to continue to garden no matter what the weather, and we counted 6 waterbutts collecting water from the roof. The produce from the vegetable garden is used in the hospice kitchen and any surplus sold to raise funds. We were particularly struck with the ‘fool-proof’ labelling on the extensive compost bins! The bee hives are a great success”
Best Religious Establishment
ST. CUTHBERT’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, CHESTER LE STREET – Gold
“An outstanding gem of a garden which has exceptionally high standards of horticulture and environmental achievement throughout its busy grounds”
Best Commercial Premises
ORD HOUSE COUNTRY PARK – Gold
“Ord House Country Park is a holiday home park which is always developing and welcomes the liaison with Berwick in Bloom.
The park is full of wild life from insects, butterfly’s and deer as well as foxes have been viewed on the park. The holiday home users take pride in their local environment and work with each other to keep the park clean and tidy. The information room gives a lot of help to encourage children and others to enhance the environment with wildflower seed for the children to sow and grow. Also the planting from Ord House Country Park expands to land outside the main entrance with a colour coordinated planting scheme”
Best Pub/Hotel
RAMSIDE HALL HOTEL, BELMONT – Gold
“The standard of the annual bedding display was excellent with vast areas of multi-coloured bedding all grown and maintained to a very high standard. The hanging baskets were full and large. This design is totally fit for purpose and is in keeping with the needs of the hotel and spa with a strong use of colour. There were other areas of well-designed and maintained permanent planting around the entrance and spa areas.
The grounds are kept to a very high standard and there was no evidence of weeds, litter, dog fouling, graffiti etc. It is a credit to the gardening team”
Best Conservation
BELMONT SCRAMBLES, BELMONT – Gold
“Belmont Scrambles is an excellent urban conservation project with an on-going sympathetic programme of development. It is very aware of its natural environment and only introduces appropriate species. There is an active Friend’s group and wider community involvement is encouraged. There have been new and successful developments this year including a wild flower meadow.
Native tree planting continues to encourage rare Butterflies. it is well maintained and cared for and is widely used by the public as a resource”
Best Bus / Metro / Railway Station
SALTBURN RAILWAY STATION – Gold
“This is a terminus Railway station. The platform is entered through an iron archway which is attractively decorated with seasonal hanging baskets and knitted art.
On the platform are attractively planted raised beds containing mixed planting. The platform and shelters were beautifully maintained and everywhere was very clean and tidy. The station building was decorated with full and colourful hanging baskets of a high standard”
Best Park
WHARTON PARK, DURHAM – Gold
“Wharton Park sits on a steeply sloping site which makes every aspect of garden maintenance a challenge, but the slope has allowed for the creation of a grass amphitheatre which hosts many public events and spectacles.
There is ample habitat for wildlife from the wildflower meadow area to the large mature trees and the newly opened Community Garden which is full of flowers, fruit and vegetables. There are several thought-provoking sculptures as well as magnificent views of Durham Cathedral and Castle. The area’s local heritage is cherished and the park is well-loved and used by residents and visitors alike”
Joint Best City and Town Centres, and BIDs
DURHAM BID – Gold
The organisation and businesses constituting the BID are clearly committed to the city and to the enhancement of the visitor experience through horticulture and a sense of pride of place.
Virtually every shop and business frontage is decorated with hanging baskets, window boxes or planters creating a very pleasing spectacle. The public spaces are busy with local residents, students and tourists alike and the standard of environmental cleanliness is very high making Durham city a very welcoming destination.
SANDERSON ARCADE AND CHAMBER OF TRADE, MORPETH – Gold
“Both Sanderson Arcade and the Chamber of trade are enthusiastic supporters of Morpeth in bloom as demonstrated by the abundance of well planted and maintained hanging baskets and planters displayed throughout the Town and within the Arcade. Events to encourage the public and school children are held throughout the year to encourage environmental awareness and active participation in Morpeth in Bloom”
Best Private Garden
JULIE GRACE PARKER, WALDRIDGE – Gold
“This small private garden has all the ingredients required for a delightful and special garden. There is a good mix of attractive perennials, shrubs and small trees, a selection of fruits and a well grown herb bed. The grass is very neat and carefully edged. The wild flower area is wonderful and the bug hotel is a 5 star residence
Best Grounds of a Hospital, University or Public Building
SUNDERLAND UNIVERSITY – Gold
“The university ground have wide paths open to the public, which are bordered by well-maintained grass seasonal flower beds, which are augmented by rocks and large planters in which orchids had appeared. The use of tall grass in difficult situation is impressive. The standards of maintenance were extremely high”
Best Sports Ground
HEXHAM GOLF CLUB – Gold
“Hexham Golf Club is striving to help their environment by the use of environmentally friendly practices and encouragement of local wildlife. Bats roost in outbuildings, surveys of local habitation and trees on course.
Restriction of harmful chemicals and use of eco-friendly methods e.g., use of water meters to control watering of greens and other areas on the course, recycling old oak trees from course as seats. Facebook page available for all to see wildlife on Golf Course”
Best Residential Community
SHANNON COURT, GREATHAM – Gold
“Shannon Court is a small, sheltered housing development near the centre of the village of Greatham. It is a joy to behold, a well-kept central grass area is surrounded by the bungalows, every one of which is ablaze with colourful plants and shrubs.
The level site is easily accessible and spotlessly clean and is enhanced by borders and pots and trellises and garden ornaments. It was the mixture of shrubs, perennials and bedding plants which particularly impressed, giving year-round colour and interest to the enthusiastic residents.
Best Allotments
LION ALLOTMENTS, BERWICK – Gold
“Lion Allotments are a historic terraced site and as such are being managed using a minimum of resources, they collect water from shed roofs and new sheds have to provide a water harvesting system as a policy when seeking permission to place a shed on site.
The allotment users support each other by maintaining the footways and terracing and also the grass areas over the historic ice houses (previously used for the salmon industry) There is a solar powered/ battery system being introduced to supply rain water for seedling plant growing. No large permanent building is allowed”
Best Tourist or Visitor Attraction, or Country Estate
KYNREN, BISHOP AUCKLAND – Gold
“Kynren is a wonderful gem and despite it being a very popular tourist attraction, is a superb haven for wildlife and nature with its abundance of natural and man-made habitats.
The whole site has been sensitively landscaped to a very high standard that incorporates horticultural gems utilising a wide variety of native species of plants. Whilst offering a unique recreational experience for visitors, including its latest attraction – an authentic Viking village – it retains the highest environmental and sustainable credentials and is a great educational asset for local people and schools to enjoy”