RHS Britain in Bloom is a nationwide community gardening campaign to transform cities, towns and villages. It is a campaign that Langport has embraced and you may have noticed that Langport has been looking increasingly colourful over the last few weeks, culminating in the SW in Bloom judges’ visit on Tuesday 18th July.
Two experienced judges from Britain in Bloom had a guided tour around Langport on with representatives from the Langport Area Business Group and Langport Town Council. Importantly, it was not just about the flowers and the judges were also looking at the general street scene, commitment to environmental issues and community participation.
“Langport in Bloom” was one of the 59 South West entries seeking a coveted RHS gold medal and Langport is up against Clovelly, St Issey and Ash near Martock.
The sun shone and Langport looked truly festive. The Town Council, businesses, community groups, residents, shops, youth groups and schools had all put time, imagination and effort into making sure that the jewel of the Somerset Levels looked its very best. In anticipation of the judges’ visit, Langport had been thoroughly cleaned and decorated. Windows washed, lawns mowed, shop fronts painted and much more.
The Town Council had ensured that the verges had been cut and roads swept. Transition Town Langport and the Scouts had carried out a litter pick. Shop and business owners decorated their shop fronts and residents had decked their gardens, doorsteps and window cills with floral displays.
Langport artist, Donna Vale had created signs and wooden flowers which could be found strategically placed around Langport. The Langport Flower Club had created a wonderful display under the town clock and Somerset Art Works had loaned the Langport Stores a wall hanging for shop front. Huish and Langport’s Youth Group’s flags were flying up and down the high street, Langport Library’s herb garden was on display and the newly restored Duchess of Cocklemoor motored by on the River Parrett. Finally, led by Kate Gibbins of Windmill Farm Flowers, volunteers had planted up tubs, baskets and containers to ensure that Langport truly was in bloom.
The plants were generously donated by Kelways Nursery, Merricks Farm and Windmill Farm Flowers, with volunteers giving up their time and expertise to set up and maintain the displays.
The judges commented on the fantastic community effort and were impressed by the creativity exhibited around the town.
There is now a wait until a decision is reached. The results will be announced on October 5th in Torquay. Until then, fingers crossed and keep watering the containers about town.
To maintain this momentum, Langport Area Business Group has made a bid to bag a cash boost from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative for this community project.