Southport's Britain in Bloom win shows 'power of gardening'

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In a victorious turn of events, Southport has emerged as the triumphant winner of the annual Britain in Bloom awards, marking a significant achievement after what judges described as “a year when community was so important.” The town, once marred by tragedy in 2024 when three young girls lost their lives at a dance workshop, showcased its resilience and unity through its Town Hall gardens and seven other areas that garnered praise on a national scale.

Chair of the judges, Darren Share, commended Southport for its admirable demonstration of the power of gardening as a collective effort. Speaking on BBC’s The One Show, John Dempsey, lead of Southport in Bloom, expressed gratitude for the abundance of natural beauty the town possesses, including three heritage parks and a stunning coastline filled with rare bird species, all managed with the help of dedicated volunteers and staff.

Adding to its accolades, Southport not only clinched victory in the coastal category but also secured a prestigious gold award from the Royal Horticultural Society, affirming its commitment to maintaining vibrant green spaces that uplift the community. The town saw a surge in volunteer numbers following the tragic events of 2024, with 150 individuals devoting over 40,000 hours to tending to the town’s gardens and public areas, symbolizing a collective effort to heal and revive the spirit of the community.

As Southport continues to blossom, plans are underway for a £10m transformation of the Town Hall gardens into a multifunctional square and performance space, serving as a token of appreciation to the public for their unwavering support in the aftermath of the 2024 tragedy. Inspired by the shared passions of Bebe, Elsie, and Alice for dance, music, and the arts, the revitalized area aims to be a vibrant and safe haven for creativity and expression, particularly catering to the town’s younger residents

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

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