NEWBURY IN BLOOM

In light of the current Coronavirus pandemic and the current HM Governments directions, it is with a heavy heart that the decision has been made to cancel this year’s Newbury in Bloom competition.

Due to the Royal Horticultural Society’s announcement that the National Britain in Bloom finals will not take place in 2020, Newbury’s entry into the Thames and Chiltern in Bloom competition will also not take place.

‘Newbury in Bloom’ has grown in the last few years and has been a huge success, with more and more residents, schools, businesses and community groups taking part.

Cllr Jon Gage, Chair of the Green Spaces Working Group said, “The ‘In Bloom’ campaigns have been so well supported in the last few years and we would like to assure everyone that we are looking forward to the campaign for 2021, when we hope that Government restrictions will allow us to carry on.

He continued, “We are keen to continue planning community volunteer planting days for the autumn and winter, if the current situation permits. If you were planning displays this year, please do continue with them as a splash of colour will make all the difference in these current times to brighten up our town”.

Cllr Martin Colston, Leader of the Council said, “We are continuing to maintain the high standards that you have come to expect in our open spaces and parks in the town, with our summer hanging baskets scheduled for early June. We are hoping to carry on with our summer bedding but current circumstances might mean they are not quite as colourful as usual. Our contractors are doing a great job, whilst following social distancing rules, in keeping our precious green spaces looking well kept”.

The Green Spaces Working Group and the Newbury in Bloom team will be in touch through social media and the Town Council’s website to keep everyone updated on future arrangements regarding Newbury in Bloom.