We are all nuts about nature
By Lara Cerroni, 25 October 2010
Hundreds of residents enjoyed tree climbing, willow weaving, pond dipping, story telling and more to celebrate all things green. The new-look ceremony for the annual Tower Hamlets in Bloom competition took place in Mile End Park’s Ecology Pavilion.
Colin Stuart, head of parks and open spaces at the council, said: “Bringing the Tower Hamlets in Bloom awards out into the community was fantastic. A wide range of activities took place to entertain young and old. From gardening tips and information to climbing nets and arts and craft, everybody who attended went away with a great big smile on their face.
“The event not only helped spread the word about the Tower Hamlets in Bloom gardening competition, but provided residents with a great opportunity to enjoy fun activities in the outdoors.”
Margaret Cox, who represented the Teesdale and Hollybush TRA Community Gardens in the competition, won the Tenant and Resident Association prize for best community garden. She said: “It was an excellent event and gave us the chance to meet other growers, share ideas and see all the efforts that everyone goes to to brighten up their communities. I enjoyed seeing all the activities too, the tree climbing looked especially fun.”
The event, along with the Tower Hamlets in Bloom competition and award ceremony, was organised by the council. The competition is part of the nationwide scheme that encourages people to become interested in plants, wildlife and the environment.
This year 69 residents, businesses, community groups and schools were awarded through the competition. The categories included nearly every type of area that could be cultivated, such as school playgrounds, front gardens, patios and balconies.
The winners were:
Best allotments or community growing site – Winterton House Organic Gardens
Best communal residential garden –Lady Mico’s Almshouses.
Best community garden – Teesdale & Hollybush TRA Community Garden
Best education establishment – Cherry Trees School
Best front garden – Olive Bailey
Best patio, balcony or container garden – J O’Connor
Best public house, restaurant, café or small business – The George Public House
Best wildlife friendly garden – Margaret Gray
Best newcomers – Karen Francis and Winterton House Organic Gardens.
In each category there were a first, second, third, highly commended and merit prizes.
Lots of exciting events and activities take place in the borough’s parks all year round. Next up on the events calendar is a host of spooky Halloween events which are set to take place in Mile End Park and Victoria Park this week.
Photo: Winterton House Organic Garden (John Archer)
