This year’s Guildford in Bloom was nothing short of spectacular! We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Building Futures secured a Silver award for Best Allotment with the halow Lido allotment, while A Reason To Get Up achieved a Silver Gilt for Best Kitchen Garden at Birtley House. These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our young adults, and they couldn't be more proud of what they've achieved.

Reflecting on last year's journey, when we started with a Bronze award, it’s incredible to see how far our young adults have come. They’ve poured their hearts into the gardens, learning invaluable skills in horticulture, teamwork, and responsibility. It’s a celebration of progress and perseverance, proving that hard work does indeed pay off!

Guildford in Bloom, founded in 1981, aims to involve the entire community – from businesses to residents – in creating biodiverse pockets across the area. This initiative encourages everyone to contribute to the protection and nurturing of our local wildlife. The annual gardening competition is an opportunity for residents and community groups to showcase their efforts in cultivating beautiful, sustainable green spaces. It highlights good horticultural practices while promoting an appreciation for the natural world.

Our young adults have been able to experience first-hand the satisfaction that comes from working the land, nurturing plants, and contributing to something greater than themselves. It’s a joy to see them light up with pride as they showcase their hard work and creativity, and we believe these experiences are vital for their development.

As we look ahead, we are eager to continue cultivating our gardens and expanding our efforts. The success at Guildford in Bloom is just the beginning! With the support of the community, we aim to inspire even more young people to join us in this rewarding journey.

Here’s to the future – one filled with blooming possibilities!