The City of Durham Trust

Beautiful Durham

Durham City was again very successful in its category of "large town", winning Northumbria in Bloom 2004 for the seventh time and achieving a silver gilt award in the Britain in Bloom 2004 competition. As the award in 2003 was for silver, this indicates that the judges saw a significant improvement in the way that the city was presented in 2004. However, that coveted gold medal still eludes the city. This coming year it is hoped that by concentrating more on volunteers (see below) the city can convince the Judges that Durham is a worthy winner.

The City of Durham Trust award "for a long-term contribution to the local/civic amenity by a local resident" was presented at the Durham in Bloom Award Ceremony on 7th October 2004 in the Town Hall, by the Mayor, Mrs. Mary Hawgood.

The Mayor, Mrs Mary Hawgood, the winner, Mr Jim McGarr and Dr John Hawgood

The winner was Jim McGarr of 1, Deerness Court, Brandon. The citation read, "The Winner has been a great supporter of the Beautiful Durham Competition over many years. He has entered his garden and floral containers every year constantly trying new varieties of plants for added interest. He has not only maintained his own garden to a very high standard but also the grounds at his place of work. Wavin Plastics at Meadowfield is situated on a very exposed and windy industrial estate. A range of very colourful floral containers adorns the frontage of the factory. The well-designed permanent planting adds structure to the site. Overall the displays make it very welcoming for staff and visitors alike. All planned and maintained by Jim in his own time."

There is a generally held view that the national 'in Bloom' awards are the preserve of the City Council – that is that the judges are just interested in what the council workers achieve on roundabouts and public spaces. This is very far from the truth. Every year the judges are looking for evidence that everyone in the city, including owners of gardens, allotments, places of work, schools, public houses and retail areas, have made their own contribution to the way that the city looks, for the pleasure and delight of residents, workers and visitors. Everyone can help in this endeavour just by thinking about his or her own garden area, workplace or street. You don’t have to specifically enter the competition itself to make a contribution. However, if you would like to enter, contact Andrew Jackson on 301 8693. Judging takes place in July.

K.T.