🌺🌷 The road to Britain in Bloom continues! 🌷🌺
Today, we were delighted to welcome two RHS Community Gardening RHS Britain in Bloom judges, Bernard Pendleton and John Bilsborough, to Rochdale Town Centre for the first of our judging days.
Our morning began at the Hampton by Hilton, who are entering Britain in Bloom for the very first time. What a fantastic display of colour to kick off the day! The judges were impressed as hotel manager Jenny shared the story behind their planting schemes and introduced their wonderful new guests – the bees! 🐝
We then headed to the rooftop of N1 Riverside, where we were welcomed by Deputy Mayor Cllr Andy Kelly, who joined us for a photograph and wished everyone well.
Throughout the day, we proudly showcased everything that makes Rochdale Town Centre so special, and the feedback was incredibly positive. We also highlighted the fantastic work of Rochdale Borough Council Environmental Management team, whose dedication to keeping our streets and pavements clean, and our gardens looking their absolute best, plays such an important part in creating a welcoming and vibrant town centre.
The judges described the Rochdale Town Centre BID area on Baillie Street as outstanding – bursting with colour and showcasing an amazing community spirit.
Our tour also included Broadfield Slopes, the Memorial Gardens, the Community Memorial Garden, and of course, the jewel in Rochdale’s crown – Rochdale Town Hall.
We spoke about our Town of Culture programme, Art in the Landscape, Touchstones, and so much more. Most importantly, we shared the incredible work taking place across horticulture, the environment and our communities. If there was one word that summed up the day, it was co-operation – a word mentioned time and time again.
This was our dress rehearsal ahead of the main judging day on 30th July, when Rochdale will be judged as a finalist in the RHS Britain in Bloom National Awards. By then, our town centre will look even more spectacular, with 50 hanging baskets, generously sponsored by local businesses, adding even more colour to our streets.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributes to making Rochdale In Bloom – from council teams and volunteers to businesses, community groups and residents. It truly is a team effort.
Here’s hoping Rochdale brings it home once again! 🌺🏆🌷
