Two Pembrokeshire seaside towns have enjoyed success at this year’s Wales in Bloom awards, with the Giltar and Atlantic hotels flying the floral flag for Tenby; and neighbouring Saundersfoot enjoying a ‘gold’ award.
Entrants from all corners of Wales gathered in Denbigh on Friday (September 8) to find out how they had done at this year’s Wales in Bloom competition.
A sunny June got entries off to a flying start in stark contrast to a cooler and wetter July and August. While gardeners struggled to keep the displays flowering through the summer residents, visitors and judges were treated to some spectacular floral displays across Wales.
This year’s awards ceremony was hosted by Denbigh in Bloom in North Wales with entrants visiting the fabulous floral displays through the town.
Welcoming the guests Lyndsey Tasker, Chairperson, said: “Denbigh in Bloom welcomed the opportunity of inviting like-minded people and groups from across Wales, to celebrate another year of Wales in Bloom here in beautiful Denbigh. We are excited to share some of what our historic medieval town has to offer and are proud to showcase Denbigh.”
Peter Barton Price, Chair of Wales in Bloom said: “Again this year our ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries are all to be commended on their achievements, the time, energy, commitment and social engagement they undertake, delivers real changes to their communities and should be celebrated at every level, as you are all truly making a big difference not only for your communities today but also for future generations.”
The fight for the best ‘Hotel Front’ is always a titanic battle for two Tenby establishments along the Esplanade, not just because they are next door neighbours but because it is a green-fingered family affair family affair at both hotels, as keeping the Giltar’s floral credentials in check is Simon Rowlands, with his son Tobin, whist his other son George is tasked with duties at the Atlantic! This year again, both hotels were awarded ‘Gold’ with The Atlantic Hotel coming out overall on top.
The category for ‘Large villages’ is always a tumultuous battle with Saundersfoot in Bloom, Holt Community Gardeners and Usk in Bloom all receiving ‘Gold’ awards this year. The displays were amazing but on this occasion, Usk in Bloom was the overall winner of the title – for a record 40th time!
In closing Peter Barton Price, Chair of Wales in Bloom said: “2023 has been another successful year for Wales in Bloom with us seeing even more entries and ever increasing standards.
“Our judges and assessors have certainly been kept busy this year traveling the length and breadth of Wales, meeting with a diverse range of people and amazing groups throughout their visits.
“You are all to be congratulated in the success and triumphs you have achieved and continue to deliver. Congratulations to you all and a very big thank you from all of us at Wales in Bloom.”
