Judges arriving to see Heywood blossom

Queen's Park Heywood

Gardening experts from the Royal Horticultural Society are coming to Heywood to judge the town’s planting power.

On Monday 16 July  they will spend two-and-a-half hours being shown how the council and community groups have intertwined to create scenic and inspiring displays.

As this year’s In Bloom theme is the centenary of the end of the World War One, poppies – the nation’s symbol of remembrance - have been placed on lampposts to mark the route the judges will take.

Displays with a remembrance theme and many poppies are being planted across the town, while silhouettes of soldiers are being placed near war memorials. 

Along the way judges will meet members of the public, school children and business owners who will each demonstrate how they are working to make their area of Heywood greener and more pleasant. 

Councillor Neil Emmott, council cabinet member for environment, said: “Heywood has had great success over the last few years with In Bloom displays winning gold medals in 2016 and 2017. This competition is not just about what we can do as a council, but we also look to support community-led projects that show the pride that many businesses and residents have in their local area. We have been working hard once again this year to ensure the area is as attractive as possible for the community and visitors.”

Ellen Wintle-Yates, chairwoman of Heywood In Bloom, said: “We would like to thank all those who have given their time and are continuing to work so hard to make this our best year ever.

"We are still looking for support from people who may be able to help with planting, a local clean up and for donations of materials or plants. If this is you, get in touch by emailing environmental.management@rochdale.gov.uk.”