Farnham in Bloom entry impresses judges despite heatwave challenge

Judging of Farnham’s entry into South & South East in Bloom has taken place on one of the hottest days of the year. Despite the challenging conditions, the town’s floral displays, community spaces and green initiatives stood up to scrutiny from the judge.

Judge Molly Klemova-White was taken on a tour of Farnham town centre to see the wide range of projects delivered by Farnham Town Council, volunteers, residents, schools and local businesses.

During the tour, the judge met members of Hive Helpers at Farnham Library. Since Farnham Town Council took on the garden last year, the volunteers have been helping to create a biodiverse haven for wildlife.

While visiting West Street, Molly heard how the Town Council has managed to maintain the hundreds of floral displays during the heatwave and saw the many hanging baskets which have been sponsored by businesses and local people.

Further highlights included a visit to Long Garden Walk to see a community wildlife garden created by volunteers Jerry and Ena, the Farnham Bee Trail, space2grow, sponsored planting across the town and green spaces maintained by the Town Council.

The visit ended at Victoria Garden, where Alison Gordon from Farnham Swimming Baths Trust shared the story of the former open-air swimming baths site, celebrating its 22nd anniversary as a community garden. The judge saw its floral displays, landscaping, special features and its importance as a well-used public space.

Speaking after the tour, Councillor Graham White, Mayor of Farnham said: “Our guiding theme for in Bloom, reflecting that of South and South East in Bloom, continues to be ‘growing flowers and communities’. It perfectly captures what we are trying to achieve. Our volunteers’ hard work has not only delivered a stunning, floral town for everyone to enjoy, but it has woven our different neighbourhoods and residents closer together as a stronger more collaborative community.

“I also extend a very warm and specific thank you to our local sponsors. Their phenomenal generosity has raised nearly £20,000 this year. In these changing times, their backing ensures we can keep aiming high and supporting our town’s visual and community life.”

The results of this year’s competition will be announced in September at the regional awards dinner. More information about this year’s Farnham in Bloom can be found at www.farnham.gov.uk.