What the judges had to say

Why are you highlighting the group? (i.e., what is it that they achieved, what are the beneficial impacts to the community, environment, education, how have they done it etc.)

Judges must provide sufficient detail here as content will be required when describing why the group was highlighted at the Bloom UK Finals awards ceremony.

We feel Rochdale hold a unique position within the ‘In Bloom’ Campaign.

They demonstrated a collaborative approach that is very rare within any of the categories.

The success of this entrant goes beyond the achievements of a single organisation and has embraced an ethos throughout the community and council inputs.

We have highlighted 4 people who have instigated the adoption of this initiative/attitude.

A synopsis of their individual experience and commitment is listed below. The report for Rochdale and success as category winner is the result of this overall approach to developing and caring for their city.

 

Roy Down

  • Nearly 20 years of voluntary service within the RHS North West In Bloom movement.
  • One of the founders of the community-led Rochdale In Bloom
  • Served for many years as Chair of Rochdale In Bloom and continues to serve as Vice Chair.
  • A respected RHS North West in Bloom Judge, and for the last few years as Vice Chairman. He encourages, mentors and inspires communities across the region.
  • Roy has helped establish, mentor and strengthen numerous In Bloom groups including Spotland, Kirkholt, Heywood, Middleton, Whitworth, Bacup and Rossendale to my knowledge. I’m sure there will be many more.
  • Always willing to support volunteer groups experiencing difficulties, helping resolve conflict and identify new community leaders so projects continue to flourish such as in Heywood and Middleton in Rochdale and many across the region
  • Developed the pioneering Mosques in Bloom initiative, bringing together faith communities, volunteers and environmental organisations through biodiversity, planting, rainwater harvesting and wildlife-friendly initiatives. What began in Rochdale has since inspired similar initiatives elsewhere.
  • Passionate about encouraging children and young people to become involved in environmental projects and ensuring the future of the In Bloom movement.
  • Freely shares his knowledge and expertise with neighbouring towns and organisations without seeking personal recognition.
  • Widely respected throughout North West in Bloom for his integrity, humility and willingness to help others succeed.
  • His greatest legacy is not simply the projects he has led, but the volunteers, community leaders and groups he has inspired to continue improving their own neighbourhoods.
  • Roy has always put communities before personal recognition and measures success by the pride local people take in where they live.

 

Philip Massey

  • Around 10 years of voluntary service with Rochdale In Bloom as Treasurer and strategic organiser.
  • The driving force behind developing sponsorship, financial sustainability and long-term planning for Rochdale In Bloom.
  • Produces the portfolios that showcase Rochdale to judges and tell the story behind every project.
  • Builds exceptional partnerships between volunteers, businesses, schools, charities, Rochdale Borough Council, the RHS and North West in Bloom.
  • Organises judging visits, plans routes and ensures every detail reflects Rochdale at its very best.
  • Instrumental in bringing the North West In Bloom “It’s Your Neighbourhood” Awards to Rochdale Town Hall, working with local businesses, hotels and partners to make the event a success.
  • Developed relationships with the RHS, and others including hosting the Young Horticulturist of the Year exhibition at Rochdale Town Hall.
  • Created and developed the annual Mayoral Tree Planting Scheme, inspired by the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative. This has become a lasting civic tradition, with each outgoing Mayor planting a tree in the incoming Mayor’s ward, creating a living environmental legacy across the borough.
  • Encouraged businesses to sponsor hanging baskets and become active supporters of environmental improvement.
  • Introduced biodiversity projects, including rooftop beehives and partnerships promoting urban nature recovery.
  • Inspired Council staff through the Number One Riverside rooftop planting initiative, creating wellbeing spaces that continue to thrive today and provide important habitats for wildlife.
  • Championed higher environmental standards across the borough and supported the ambition that has seen Rochdale achieve a record number of Green Flag Award-winning parks.
  • Worked alongside Petrus and fellow volunteers at RHS Tatton Park, personally helping construct the award-winning display, including bespoke wooden features and a handcrafted pergola. Their display achieved a People’s Choice Award, demonstrating his willingness to contribute practical skills as well as leadership.
  • Always willing to roll up his sleeves and work alongside volunteers regardless of the task, leading by example rather than from the sidelines.
  • Widely respected throughout the In Bloom movement for his professionalism, organisation, and commitment to helping other communities succeed. Always at the end of the phone for anyone, anytime, anywhere.

 

Michael and Louise Scott

  • They have contributed to Rochdale in Bloom – above and beyond, Michael is the current Chairman of Rochdale in Bloom
  • Their family business H Bell and Sons support so many community projects in Rochdale and beyond
  • They involve their workforce with corporate volunteering throughout the year
  • Louise is a beacon of support for numerous community causes, including being a business buddy since 2016 for Springhill Hospice, Jolly Josh Charity, Petrus Homeless, and many others she is currently DL for Greater Manchester
  • Michael and Louise are regularly seen maintaining their local Taylor Park in Norden Rochdale with other volunteers
  • They have taken on the maintenance of the Memorial Gardens outside Rochdale Town Hall, ensuring the areas are exceptionally well maintained for special events throughout the year and for residents and visitors who visit the gardens every day
  • As H Bells celebrated 110 years of business they planted 110 trees across the borough of Rochdale
  • They are passionate about improving the horticulture, environment and most important the community in Rochdale