Bootle, Crosby, Southport and Waterloo have all been recognised by the North West in Bloom group despite the cancellation of this year’s usual judging.

Earlier this year it was confirmed that due to the ongoing restrictions with COVID-19, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) had decided to cancel judging for this year’s regional in Bloom competitions.

However, residents across Sefton were not deterred by this news and when restrictions were lifted in June, volunteers returned to green spaces to showcase once again their gardening skills by maintaining flower beds and creating wonderful displays.

As a result, North West in Bloom has shared certificates of recognition for the creativity and ingenuity shown despite such testing times.

Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:

“The Green Sefton team has been absolutely bowled over by the determination and commitment of our green-fingered community groups and volunteers who’ve still created such wonderful displays this year.

“Not only do their continued efforts help to make our Sefton greener, but they also help to bring communities together making them stronger and happier. We’ve all enjoyed spending time outdoors, perhaps more than ever this year, and having passionate gardeners across our Borough looking after our valued green spaces has really enhanced our time spent outdoors.”

Green Sefton – who help co-ordinate North West in Bloom within the Borough – are encouraging green-fingered residents to think ahead now to next year when it is hoped the North West in Bloom competition will go ahead.

Anyone interested in becoming involved can email green.sefton@sefton.gov.uk

For more information on taking a more active role in community gardening, the RHS has lots of helpful resources, simply visit: https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/community-gardening.