Impressed Bloom judges were bowled over by Erewash Borough Council’s colourful town centre floral displays, which have won widespread praise from local residents. They also enjoyed the appearance and facilities of both towns during busy tours of the area in the summer.

Councillor Mike Wallis, Erewash Borough Council’s Lead Member for Culture and Leisure, said:

“My congratulations go to the council’s ‘Bloom’ team who have worked tirelessly throughout the year planning, developing and maintaining our wonderful displays and ensuring Erewash is clean and welcoming. This is the eighth successive year that both towns have been successful, an outstanding achievement.

“We are also very grateful to the many volunteers, residents and schoolchildren who have worked with us, and shown great community spirit in helping us care for our local environment.”

As well as the council’s floral displays, local businesses, schools and residents helped provide the bloom success through their commitment to providing colourful flowers and baskets.

To recognise this support, the East Midlands in Bloom initiative also presented special Judges Awards to the Friends of Straw’s Bridge, West Hallam for their dedication to the continued development of the nature reserve as a centre for wildlife conservation and a visitor destination and to Councillor Mike Wallis for his continued commitment to the “Bloom Initiative”.

This year’s Bloom competition also brought awards for two community entries, with Draycott winning Gold and Little Eaton taking Silver Gilt in the Small Town category.