FROM commons to churchyards, Malvern’s best‑kept green spaces were on show as Britain in Bloom judges toured the town for this year’s contest.
National judges Roger Burnett and Dale Hector visited on Wednesday, August 5, just a fortnight after regional judges David and Lesley Pritchard declared Malvern ‘ready’ for the large town category of the Bloom UK Finals following a successful dress rehearsal tour.
The day began with a welcome reception at Malvern Town Council’s Community Hub in Victoria Park before the judges were taken on a whistle‑stop visit to key green spaces and community projects.
They met representatives from Malvern Hills Trust on Malvern Link Common, viewed colourful displays created by the well‑dressing team on Belle Vue Island, and saw the work of volunteers who care for the gardens at Malvern Library.
At Malvern Cube, the panel heard about community initiatives based around the venue’s outdoor spaces before heading to Great Malvern Cemetery to meet town council operational staff and see how the historic site is maintained.
The visit concluded with a reception at the Morgan Motor Company, where the judges were later waved off in a Morgan car to the station for their onward journey.
Town clerk Linda Blake said being selected for the national finals was ‘an honour’ and praised everyone involved.
“What we have shown the judges this morning is a fantastic achievement, and the result of the hard work, commitment and determination of all of those involved in this campaign,” she said.
“Many people think that the Malvern in Bloom campaign is just about our bedding displays and hanging baskets, but it is so much more than that.”
Mayor Cllr Iain Dawson thanked the ‘army’ of volunteers who have painted benches and railings, dressed wells, weeded, watered and generally tidied the town, as well as partner organisations and community groups.
Deputy mayor Cllr Anne Cherry also paid tribute to town council staff, who she said had ‘pulled together’ despite the recent departure of a key team member.
The results of the Britain in Bloom UK finals will be announced at an awards ceremony in Rochdale in October.