Cramlington’s environmental achievements recognised at Northumbria in Bloom Awards

Seven awards were presented to Cramlington groups at today’s Northumbria in Bloom ceremony.

In the Large Town category, Cramlington was awarded a Silver Gilt which equates to ‘very good ‘.

There was further success for the town in the Special Awards categories.

The Best Conservation trophy went to The Friends of Valley Park. Judges commented: “The 52 acre site is enthusiastically looked after by a group of up to 60 volunteers. They maintain the meadows, woodland and newly created pond for the benefit of the entire local community. This is a much-loved asset to the residents, Cramlington in general and of course the local wildlife.”

Manor Walks Shopping Centre won a gold award in the Town Centre Retail category.

In the Parks category Alexandra Park was awarded a Silver Gilt as was Anne Welfare Bowling Club in the Sports Club category  and Northumberlandia in the Tourist Attraction section.

The Blagdon Arms gained a silver in the Pub/hotel category.

Bloom judges said that Cramlington had a great strength in the numerous and diverse range of voluntary teams who take pride in their local environment and heritage.This is echoed in their achievements horticulturally and how they truly engage with the public and the wider community.

Chair of Cramlington Town Council Services Committee Councillor Mark Swinburn commented: “I send my congratulations to everyone who contributed to Cramlington’s success today. Thank you for all that you do for the benefit of all of our residents and visitors. It’s because we have residents willing to be actively involved in community groups that yet again Cramlington has achieved recognition. Community spirit is thriving in Cramlington and that’s blooming good news!”

The Northumbria in Bloom competition is now in its 60th year. Chairman Robert Germany said “People assume we are all about municipal displays however the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. ‘In Bloom’ communities tackle everything from litter and antisocial behaviour through to conservation, biodiversity, well-being and civic pride. These awards are all about recognising and celebrating this work and enhancing the overall environment of the North East.”

Pictured: The presentations at today’s Northumbria in Bloom ceremony and some of Cramlington’s many green spaces.