Sophia Newman beat 139 rivals to claim top honours
Sophia Newman’s outdoor haven secures victory in housing group’s annual gardening competition
A green-fingered Devon resident has been recognised for transforming her garden into a colourful haven—earning her top honours in a regional gardening competition.
Sophia Newman, from Bovey Tracey, took first place in Sovereign Network Group’s (SNG) “In Bloom” awards, clinching the title in the “Home Garden In Bloom” category. Her entry stood out among 139 submissions from across the South of England, spanning SNG’s 85,000-household portfolio.
The annual competition highlights indoor and outdoor spaces, from individual gardens to community plots, rewarding creativity and care for the environment. Winners are selected across four categories celebrating customers’ efforts to enhance their living spaces.
Sophia impressed judges with a garden described as vibrant, well-kept, and beautifully lit for evening enjoyment. She was awarded £200 in vouchers and a trophy for her winning entry.
Sophia Newman’s outdoor haven secures victory in housing group’s annual gardening competition
Speaking about her win, Sophia said: “My garden truly makes a difference to my everyday life. I start my mornings with breakfast outside, and it’s the last thing I see at night before the lights go off when I go to bed.
“I love being able to enjoy it even in the evenings, with the lighting carefully arranged so it illuminates beautifully without disturbing the neighbours.
“For me, my garden is not separate from my home – it’s an extension of it. A home would never feel complete without a garden, and I believe gardens should never be neglected or forgotten, because they are just as important as the rooms we live in.”
Matt Buckham, one of the competition judges and managing director at SNG’s Community Foundation, praised the standard of entries.
“It was really difficult to choose this year, but it’s certainly been a pleasure judging some brilliant gardens, plants and green spaces,” Matt said. “While we aim to provide good quality places to live, it’s our customers who turn them into real homes to thrive in by adding colour, beauty and life.”
Ruth Picknett-Powell, fellow judge and customer influence panellist, added: “Congratulations to all who took the time to apply, and well done to our winners. I hope that you continue to garden and encourage everyone to apply again next year—winners and applicants alike. Tell others, let’s get more people involved, as even the smallest plot will support nature and wellbeing.”
A full list of winners can be viewed at: www.sng.org.uk/in-bloom
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