Norden in Bloom wins fifth Gold and top town honour in RHS competition

Saturday, 10 January 2026 15:32

By David Murphy

Norden has secured a prestigious Gold award for the fifth consecutive year in the RHS North West In Bloom 2025, celebrating the sustained efforts of its volunteers, businesses and local community.

The village was awarded Gold and named joint Best Town in its category during the regional awards. The result follows a full sweep of top marks across all its entries in the “It’s Your Neighbourhood” scheme, which recognises grassroots community gardening and environmental work.

The RHS North West In Bloom awards involve two judging days during the summer. This year’s judging began at Owd Betts and included stops across Ashworth Valley, St James Church, Taylor Park, Shelfield Cottages, the village centre, Norden Bowling Club, and Jubilee Park. Each location showcased efforts in community gardening, environmental sustainability, and wellbeing.

Top-rated sites included Taylor Park, Jubilee Park, Shelfield Cottages and Norden Bowling Club, all of which received a level 5 “Outstanding” grade. Friends of Ashworth Valley also earned a level 4 “Thriving” grade for their work maintaining the local environment.

Jubilee Park was separately awarded Gold in the Pocket Park category.

The judging concluded with a visit to Birtle Brook Village and The Pavilion Bistro. Both retained their Gold status and were once again named Best Overall Winners in their respective categories, Best Large Accommodation for Pinnacle Living at Birtle Brook Village, and Best Commercial Property for The Pavilion Bistro.

Paul Ellison, chair of Norden in Bloom, said: “This is a fantastic result for our community. Norden punches well above its weight in the In Bloom competition, and that’s down to the tireless efforts of our volunteers, local businesses and the backing we receive from Rochdale’s Environmental Management Team.”

Norden councillor Jim Gartside added: “The work our volunteers put in is extraordinary. This recognition is richly deserved.”

Norden in Bloom is supported by sponsors The Pavilion Bistro, Owd Betts, Admiral Labels and Print, as well as Rochdale Borough Council’s Environmental Management service and various local businesses and volunteers.