Members of Farnham’s community came together to celebrate an amazing year of Farnham in Bloom last week (Sunday 17 December) at Gostrey Meadow. The Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Mike Hodge opened the celebration and was joined by councillors, Farnham in Bloom volunteers, sponsors, gardening enthusiasts and other local residents.

“It has been wonderful to bring to a close a highly successful year for Farnham in Bloom by coming together and looking back at the many highlights of this year’s competition. The three gold medals awarded to Farnham – along with all the other In Bloom awards – recognise not just the stunning displays and horticultural achievements but also the value of so many local people working together for the benefit of the town as a whole – certainly something worth celebrating!” says Councillor Hill, Lead Member for Farnham in Bloom.

The event was also an opportunity to look ahead to 2018: “Even in the depths of winter we are thinking about the next Farnham in Bloom. Keep an eye on www.farnham.gov.uk/bloom for news of how to get involved,” says Councillor Hill. Farnham in Bloom is organised by Farnham Town Council and the Farnham in Bloom Community Group and generously supported by the business community. Sponsorship in 2017 came from Specsavers in Farnham and dozens of other local businesses. Work is carried out largely by volunteers led by the Farnham in Bloom Community Group which welcomes new recruits.

The guests enjoyed Christmas music by Farnham Brass Band and were warmed by mulled wine and mince pies, which were kindly donated by Waitrose and Sainsbury’s.

On sale were pots of hyacinths planted by children at the Bloomin’ Kids Gardening Workshops that took place over autumn half term. The sale of the mince pies and mulled wine raised £119.67 for the Simon Trust, a local charity for adults with autism.