Middleton gets ready to blossom in RHS Britain in Bloom finals

Wednesday, 29 January 2025 10:55

By David Murphy

Middleton Town Centre has been selected as one of the best in the North West and is now competing to win the 2025 Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Britain in Bloom UK title.

The nomination means Middleton will compete with the best in the UK, including Darlington in Northumbria, Kirkcaldy in Scotland, and Sevenoaks in Kent in the town centre and city centres category.

Middleton is full of many heritage assets and several award-winning spaces, including four green flag awards for Middleton Memorial Gardens, Boarshaw Cemetery, Truffet Park and Jubilee Park – home to the beautiful Grade II listed steps and Exedra, designed by local architect and artist Edgar Wood in 1906.

Councillor Tricia Ayrton, the council’s deputy leader and portfolio holder for climate change and environment, said: “Last year Rochdale town centre was nominated and won gold and now Middleton is championing our borough for 2025.

“To be selected to compete with the best across the UK is an accolade only achieved by working together to create beautiful spaces that are often the envy of many other towns and cities. The council’s grounds team and Bowlee Garden Nursery will work closely alongside Middleton in Bloom, other community groups, local businesses, and volunteers to make sure Middleton will be ready to shine this summer.”

Lisa Shepherd, secretary of Middleton in Bloom, added: “This town centre entry, which runs from the beautiful Alkrington Woods, through to Middleton Gardens and up to Jubilee Park, is unique because it includes so much green space that we are privileged to have on our doorstep, and an amazing amount of local history on display for all to see.

“This incredible achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of the amazing volunteers, community partners and environmental management team at Rochdale Borough Council who make Middleton bloom so beautifully.”

Britain in Bloom judges will visit each of the 44 UK finalists in the summer with the winners of each category announced at an awards ceremony in the autumn.

Work is also under way in Heywood, Rochdale, and the Pennines areas to prepare for North West in Bloom judging.

In Bloom groups are always seeking new members. Find out more about previous awards and how you can support your local group and be part of a growing community, at rochdale.gov.uk/InBloom.