We are overjoyed to share that in 2025 halow have been honoured with Silver Gilt awards in the “Best Neighbourhood Project” category at Guildford in Bloom!

• Henley Fort BFG allotment group
• ARTGU Birtley Kitchen Garden Group
• Building Futures Lido Allotment Group

All three received Silver Gilt in the Best Neighbourhood Project category, an incredible achievement that highlights the hard work, creativity, and teamwork of everyone involved.

What this means to us

Guildford in Bloom is far more than a competition, founded in 1981, it has become a symbol of community celebration, sustainability and taking pride in our neighbourhoods. Through initiatives like ARTGU and BFG, we aim not only to beautify our surroundings, but to give young people hands-on opportunities to learn, grow, and put down roots in something meaningful. To have three of our projects singled out is incredibly humbling, and we couldn’t be prouder.

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We couldn't have done this alone. Our deepest gratitude goes to our young people and volunteers, whose passion, determination, and imagination have made ARTGU and BFG what they are. Local residents and neighbours, for welcoming us into your streets and green spaces and helping every step of the way. Community partners, sponsors, and supporters, for believing in our vision and backing us with resources and encouragement. Donors who have enabled us to acquire the equipment needed to make our gardens flourish. And Guildford in Bloom for recognising communiy-led green projects and creating space for local voices to shine.

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"Gardening helps improve our communication, teamwork and social skills.  Being at Birtley in the beautiful countryside is great for everyone's health and wellbeing. Entering Guildford in Bloom gave us all a focus.  Winning an award from Guildford in Bloom is a great  achievement and reward for everyone's efforts." - Sarah, Project Worker

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For our young adults, getting the opportunity to learn about the seasons, gardening, growing vegetables, fruit and flowers and the varied wildlife, as well as having tangible evidence of their labour, has been extremly rewarding and educational.

Growing forwards

While these awards are an opportunity to reflect and celebrate, they’re also a spur to keep going, improving, and dreaming bigger.

Above all, we hope that these awards can serve as a reminder that community-led green spaces can transform lives, neighbourhoods, and outlooks.

Read the full lust of winners here ‍