Ledbury Focus November 2019 Ledbury Focus November 2019 v3 | Page 34

Ledbury in Bloom Ledbury in bloom gains outstanding grades for ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ groups after 13th gold A t their first meeting since gaining their 13th Gold Award some of the hardy regulars of Ledbury In Bloom gathered in the Community Centre on Monday 30th September 2019 to raise a glass in celebration of their achievements. The occasion was also an opportunity to congratulate those groups who had been entered in the RHS’ ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ scheme. Between them The Ledbury Station group led by Lynne McCrae, The U3A Gardeners led by Sally Holliday, The Nursing Home group led by Graham Roberts, The Almshouse Beds led by Wendy Hill and The St. Michaels Housing group were given the top rating of ‘Level 5: Outstanding’ four times and one ‘Level 4: Thriving’. looked 'Blooming Beautiful' this summer helped by the magnificent hanging baskets provided by The Town Council. Also thanks to our sponsors; we were pleased to get more small donations from private individuals and some local businesses but we always struggle financially so despite the current economic climate I hope others will follow suit”. The next morning some of the winners gathered in The Walled Garden to show off their certificates. On the left is Wendy Hill who maintains the Almshouse Beds almost single handedly, while John and Nina Hainsworth, Lis Lindsey and Sally Holliday are all from The U3A Walled Gardeners. Lynne McCrea was awarded a Level 5 for keeping the station beautiful. An extended team that have helped to brighten up The Nursing Home complex and the team at St. Michael’s Housing were both entered outside Ledbury In Bloom and rated as ‘Level 5: Outstanding’. Well done to all! mood. “We have recieved the judges’ comments and will use them to plan for 2020. It was ironic that the judges still mentioned the weeds; thank goodness they didn’t see it two weeks earlier! To be honest I can’t guarantee the future of Ledbury in Bloom if the small dedicated band of volunteers have to do this massive job that should really be done by the authorities. We don’t have the manpower, equipment, training or funds to tackle all the weeds. Can anyone offer any professional help? We keep being downgraded for things that we have no control over which is frustrating” he continued. “This year it was the weeds and the street furniture (bins, signs etc). They say that many hands make light work so if you can help in any way please ring me on 01531 634716 or come along to our AGM at 7:30pm on Wednesday 13th November in the Market Theatre Foyer. You don’t even need to get your hands dirty as we need help with admin as well as horticulture.” Mr Gunn concluded in sombre As expected this year’s Gold was a close call with Ledbury In Bloom gaining just one mark more than the 170 out of 200 needed. “The judges praised the group for raising it’s game this year “ said current Chairman Clive Gunn. “To quote the judges “A lack of support has not deterred the volunteers, in fact it has inspired them to seek help from other groups and through an informative brochure.” Our real battle was with the weeds and I would personally like to thank the many people who came out in the last few days before our assessment and tackled the weeds throughout the streets of Ledbury. I would like to thank the volunteers for all they did through- out 34 the year; I think that Ledbury To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: [email protected]