Mayor joins preparations for Upton In Bloom (From Malvern Gazette)

Mayor joins preparations for Upton In Bloom

3:20pm Monday 15th June 2009 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed

UPTON’S new mayor Paul Thomas got his hands dirty to help with the town’s preparations for this year’s Heart of England in Bloom Campaign.

Councillor Thomas joined about a dozen volunteers in the pouring rain planting displays about the town and along the waterfront.

The work was accomplished fairly quickly, thanks to some preparation work by Earls Croome Garden Centre, and it is now mainly only upkeep that needs to take place before Upton’s judging day on Friday, July 10.

Upton in Bloom chairman said the planting was enjoyable, despite the weather.

“Everyone’s hands were very dirty by the end but it was all good fun and very satisfying to get it done so quickly,” she said. “It’s really now just a case of maintenance and watering before the judges visit.

“Personally I think the town is looking even better than in previous years. The plants still have quite a bit of growing to do so they are only going to get even better.”

Upton has enjoyed considerable success in the Heart of England in Bloom competition, collecting a string of Gold Awards and last year being named Overall Winner.

When the judges visit this year they will also be presented with the unusual sight of dozens of wellington boots filled with plants.

Upton in Bloom is running a “Plant a Wellie Garden” competition, and the Heart of England judges have agreed to run the rule over the entries when they come to town.

Anyone who wants to take part should simply plant a standard wellie with whatever eye-catching plants and flowers they choose, and then bring their entry to the Old Churchyard at about 11.30am.

“Some of our members had seen it done quite successfully elsewhere,” explained Mrs Surtees. “It’s something quite easy to do and we just thought it would be interesting and good fun.”