Contributors and supporters of Farnham in Bloom have turned out in force to show a judge from South & South East in Bloom what makes Farnham one of the south east’s top blooming towns. 

Over the course of a morning, judge Hazel Chant saw examples of Farnham in Bloom’s efforts to improve biodiversity at Gostrey Meadow, how the project has adapted to the Farnham Infrastructure works as well as seeing the hundreds of planters and hanging baskets which are sponsored by local businesses. 

During the tour of the town centre, the In Bloom judge met representatives from Farnham Biodiversity Group, the Friends of Gostrey Meadow, Hive Helpers, Farnham Swimming Baths Trust, Space2Grow and Bloomin’ Friends. There was also time to stop off at St Andrew’s Infant School to see how the school maximises planting in its limited outside space and to later meet one of In Bloom’s Silver sponsors – the Bush Hotel. 

During her tour, Hazel Chant assessed Farnham in Bloom for its overall impression and visual impact, maintenance of planted areas, seasonal and purposeful floral displays, plant selection and quality, and efforts to support biodiversity and reduce environmental impact. 

Councillor Mat Brown, Lead Member for Environment says: “In the run-up to judging day, our outside workforce worked hard in challenging conditions, watering plants from 6am and again until 9pm each evening to ensure the displays being judged remained vibrant during the heatwave. Bloomin’ Friends volunteers were also out and about deadheading, weeding, litter picking, and keeping the town looking its best.

“Farnham in Bloom is such a positive and transformative project, and it truly brings out the best in our town. The teamwork and commitment shown by our staff and volunteers is inspiring, and it’s what makes our entry so special. We were proud to show the judge all the ways In Bloom grow communities as well as flowers.”

The results of the South & South East in Bloom competition will be announced at the end of September. To find out more about Farnham in Bloom, visit www.farnham.gov.uk to watch a short film about this year’s entry.  

Farnham in Bloom 2025 has been sponsored by: Gold sponsors – The Patio Blackspot Removal Co, Squire’s Garden Centre, BBS for Magimix and Cala and Silver sponsors the Bush Hotel, Waitrose and Farnham Institute Charity.