Petal medal for bloomin' marvellous show

Monday 1st October 2007

Wigan Council is celebrating success in the North West in Bloom awards.

2007 was only the second year the council and its partners had entered the competition; now environment chiefs have been invited to a celebration at Manchester Town Hall in October to receive an 'In Bloom' award.

The council’s ‘In Bloom’ strategy aims to gain recognition and attention for Wigan borough as a green and eco-conscious place to live, work and invest. Officers have worked alongside housing and leisure trust partners, schools and the probation service, as well as voluntary groups such as BTCV.

Deputy Leader of Wigan Council and In Bloom Champion, Cllr John O’Neill says:

"This is a wonderful tribute to the work of volunteers, colleagues and friends who helped make the borough stunning and full of wonderful floral displays. It’s astonishing that we are now being recognised alongside more established and, dare I say, leafier, parts of the North West. Well done!"

In Bloom judges were met by Cllr O’Neill in July for a tour of the borough. They saw planter displays in every township, grot spot clean ups, green spaces like the Wigan Flashes, community projects and even recycling facilities.

Following the visit, regional organiser of North West in Bloom, Trevor Leese, said:

"Many thanks for the council’s support and hospitality during the judges' visit. I am delighted to inform you that Wigan Council has been nominated to receive an award. Congratulations."

Cllr O'Neill, who will attend the October ceremony, adds:

"We are already planning for Wigan Borough in Bloom 2008. Officers will be preparing new floral displays, clearing up and going into schools to remind people about litter and recycling. But we want the borough to be involved. Whether that means showing off a well-kept garden or helping identify and clear a grot spot, we need everyone, and especially support from the business community. Ring 01942 488299 and come and do your bit."