Gold rush for Middleton as town has a double-win in Britain in Bloom 2025

Saturday, 1 November 2025 16:29

By David Murphy

Middleton's community effort and green pride land a double victory at the RHS competition

Middleton has clinched a double win at the RHS Britain in Bloom UK Finals 2025, securing Gold and being named the national category winner for Town Centres and City Centres.

The stunning result marks Middleton’s first time entering the national competition, making the achievement even more remarkable.

Announced during a ceremony at The Grand Brighton, the award celebrates months of hard work by residents, businesses, volunteers, and Rochdale Borough Council. Judges praised the town’s cohesive partnership approach and strong community spirit, highlighting the collaborative effort between local organisations, the Environmental Management team, and the staff at Bowlee Nursery.

The group behind Middleton’s entry posted a heartfelt message after the win:

“Wow we did it – we won gold for the Town. And we also won the category winner. What an amazing achievement for a first-time entry into the Britain in Bloom National competition.
This was a win for the community and partnership working.
Tonight we’re celebrating – and next week we’ll be back out there.”

The achievement adds Middleton to a prestigious list of winners in the RHS’s national campaign, which recognises horticultural excellence, environmental responsibility and community involvement. Middleton impressed judges across all three categories.

The entry, spearheaded by volunteers from Friends of Jubilee Park & Old Cemetery, demonstrated a blend of floral displays, green infrastructure, and local engagement.

Middleton joins standout entries like Southport in Bloom, which was crowned overall winner after achieving gold in the Coastal category and playing a key role in local healing efforts following a tragedy in 2024.

Other North West winners include Garstang in the Small Town category, Congleton and Chorley in the Large Town and Small City categories respectively, and Middleton’s neighbouring town of Bury, which also secured gold.

RHS judges commended all finalists for their efforts in enhancing communities through gardening, with particular attention to groups that have fostered biodiversity, created inclusive spaces, or supported wellbeing initiatives.