Brandon in Bloom celebrates another Gold award

Brandon in Bloom volunteers are celebrating another remarkable achievement after securing their fifth consecutive Gold Award in the Town category at this year’s Anglia in Bloom Awards.

Eight dedicated volunteers travelled to Burgess Hall in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, on Thursday 4th September to represent the town at the prestigious ceremony.

Hosted by radio presenters Steve Scruton and Ian Wyatt, the annual event shines a spotlight on excellence in horticulture, sustainability, and community pride across the Anglia region.

The day began with the Virtual Awards, which recognise achievements in areas such as cemeteries, public parks, and hotels through photographic submissions. Brandon did not put forward entries in these categories this year, but the group is encouraging local organisations and businesses to consider getting involved in the future.

Attention then turned to the Special Awards – categories that cannot be entered but are chosen directly by the judges, making each nomination both unexpected and highly valued. Brandon was shortlisted in three of these awards:

• Area for Wildlife: Wellington Close
• Sustainable Planting: Fred’s Green Wall
• 30 Years of Anglia in Bloom: Parading Parasols

These nominations reflect the breadth of Brandon in Bloom’s work, from supporting local biodiversity and promoting sustainable planting to bringing creativity and colour to public spaces.

The highlight of the ceremony came when Brandon once again struck Gold in the Town category, reaffirming its reputation for consistent excellence year after year.

Adding further cause for celebration, long-serving volunteer Mick Flack was presented with the George Dawson Award, a special recognition of his outstanding commitment to the bloom initiative.

Alongside the awards, guests enjoyed a light lunch, raffle, and the chance to share ideas and experiences with other bloom groups. Dunstable in Bloom took home the overall title of Anglia in Bloom 2025 winner, while Oxburgh Estate was named Best Newcomer.

Looking to the months ahead, Brandon will play host to the Autumn Seminar on 13th November at The Harvest Centre. The event will welcome participants from six counties, provide feedback from judges, and reveal results for Brandon’s 15 It’s Your Neighbourhood entries.

But first, attention turns to the national stage, where Brandon will proudly represent the town at the Britain in Bloom Awards in Brighton on 31st October.