The Royal Horticultural Society’s South West in Bloom Awards was held on Wednesday, October 8, in Torbay, Devon and saw representatives from South Swindon Parish Council attend.
The parish, which manages some of Swindon’s most beloved parks such as Town Gardens and Queen’s Park, has won various categories at the award ceremony for the past three years running.
This year, the Swindon parish walked away with the highest award possible – taking home the gold award, urban communities trophy and becoming winners of the Tesco cup.
The prestigious competition is one of 18 regional competitions that make up Britain in Bloom – the biggest horticultural competition in Europe.
Gardeners are thrilled to bring home gold once again(Image: South Swindon Parish Council)
“This is about pride, heritage, and community spirit,” said Linda Kasmaty, from South Swindon Parish Council.
“Together, we’re showing what makes South Swindon such a brilliant place to live.”
She added: “A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers, gardeners, street service teams and staff.
“Thank you also to all community groups and businesses who give their time and energy year-round to make South Swindon greener, brighter and more welcoming.
“We are absolutely thrilled. This gold medal and category win reflects the heart and determination of so many local people who care deeply about South Swindon.
“Every planted corner, mural, school project, and litter pick adds up to something powerful — a community that’s proud of where it lives and eager to make it even better.”
The parish council is responsible for multiple parks, including Town Gardens(Image: Dave Cox)
Multiple sites across South Swindon were judged by the Royal Horticultural Society as part of the decision making process, and key areas such as community, sustainability and horticulture were considered.
The RHS South West in Bloom urban communities trophy also recognised Swindon’s creativity and determination needed to bring colour and nature to busy urban spaces.
RHS Judges praised South Swindon’s ability to “galvanise the power and emotion of bringing people together.”
Martin Hambidge, a community gardening leader in Swindon, previously told the Adver: “South Swindon have been entering the Southwest in Bloom competition for years with over 30 different locations in our town involved.
“We were awarded our first gold medal in 2023 and came first in class.”
South Swindon Parish Council is now looking for more helpers, supporters and business partners to join the group in tackling graffiti, fly-tipping and litter in town to continue to represent Swindon in its best light at the national award level.
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