THE Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and the Town Forum launched this year’s Royal Tunbridge Wells In Bloom last Friday [April 21].
The event, which is a partnership between local residents, ward councillors and the Love Where You Live initiative, aims to create a greener and more flower friendly town by installing and maintaining more horticultural displays across Tunbridge Wells.
Each year the In Bloom team encourages the community as well as local schools and businesses to help plant up hanging baskets, barrier troughs and containers on the town’s streets, roundabouts, balconies and neglected green spaces.
This year it also hopes to introduce edible landscapes on suitable spots in parks in order to further publicise the campaign.
Last Friday and Saturday volunteers manned a tented stall outside Royal Victoria Place, handing out information to the public on this year’s project and giving some lucky passers-by complementary cuttings and plants. The event’s sponsors which include Coolings garden centre and Kent High Weald Partnership were also present offering advice on everything from planting tips, floral species and soil types.
Tunbridge Wells Mayor David Neve also popped along on Friday to show his support for the green fingered project which includes a variety of Open Gardens to visit and a Best in Show competition.
There are also special categories within the main contest for businesses, private residences, community groups and schools such as Best Basket, Best Wildlife Garden and Most Impressive Front Balcony.
The In Bloom team hope that this year’s event will not only increase community and civic pride but will address conservation issues and boost the local economy and help regenerate run down areas in the town with a variety of eye-grabbing horticulture.
