Bloomin’ great!
Date published: 19 November 2013
IT was an evening of gardening glamour for Oldham’s green-fingered enthusiasts.
Hosted by First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) and Oldham Council, the annual gardening awards at the Queen Elizabeth Hall welcomed back Joe Swift, presenter of BBC’s “Gardener’s World” to help nominees and winner celebrate their achievements.
The awards evening was held in conjunction with Oldham Council’s private gardens and allotments competition, and incorporated category winners of Housing 21, Village Housing Association and Regenda’s competitions.
The FCHO competition takes place annually and is open to all of its residents. Categories range from communal gardens to hanging baskets and pots. O
Joe Swift said: “The Oldham gardening awards evening was a very special night. We all got together to celebrate the borough’s passion for horticulture and the positive effect it has on the community.
“This year there was a buzz in the air as Oldham won North West in Bloom again and lots of local residents received awards for their fabulous front and back gardens, containers and allotments.
“I always enjoy meeting the people of Oldham who take such pride in their surroundings for the benefit of all.”
Cath Green, chief executive of FCHO said: “To be present at the awards night and to meet the Oldhamers who put so much time and effort into creating these green havens was wonderful.
“The evening was so uplifting and having Joe Swift join us again for the third year running was a well-deserved treat for our customers who put such a lot of effort in to their glorious gardens, baskets and containers.”
Oldham’s Mayor, Councillor John Hudson said: “It was a fabulous evening highlighting the work people do to brighten the community. I would like to thank the sponsors for offering their support during these difficult times and the organisers for making the night so memorable. We should also thank everyone for displaying their marvellous allotments and lovely gardens to enrich the lives of others in the borough.”
The celebrations took place with the support and sponsorship from FCHO contractors and local businesses. Emanuel Whittaker was the evening’s main sponsor, and Casey, Forrest and Keepmoat also provided sponsorship
