Greatham is named best village in Northumbria in Bloom awards

It is one of the prettiest villages in Hartlepool - and now judges of a prestigious horticultural competition have named it as the best in the whole region.
Brian Walker, Chairman of Greatham in Bloom, holding their gold Northumbria in Bloom certificate with fellow members (left to right) Hazel Campbell, Ann Murray, Dorothy Clark and Peter Dixon in front of their flowerbed designed in tribute to the RAF's centenary. Picture by Frank Reid.Brian Walker, Chairman of Greatham in Bloom, holding their gold Northumbria in Bloom certificate with fellow members (left to right) Hazel Campbell, Ann Murray, Dorothy Clark and Peter Dixon in front of their flowerbed designed in tribute to the RAF's centenary. Picture by Frank Reid.
Brian Walker, Chairman of Greatham in Bloom, holding their gold Northumbria in Bloom certificate with fellow members (left to right) Hazel Campbell, Ann Murray, Dorothy Clark and Peter Dixon in front of their flowerbed designed in tribute to the RAF's centenary. Picture by Frank Reid.

For the first time in more than 20 years, Greatham has won the trophy and a gold medal as Best Village in the Northumbria in Bloom competition.

Judges were won over by its historic beauty, cleanliness and the efforts of residents, led by volunteers on the Greatham in Bloom group.

The RAF flowerbed in Greatham village. Picture by Frank Reid.The RAF flowerbed in Greatham village. Picture by Frank Reid.
The RAF flowerbed in Greatham village. Picture by Frank Reid.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Brian Walker, chairman of the Greatham in Bloom Committee said: “We are really pleased to maintain our gold medal, but absolutely over the moon to be awarded the trophy for best village entry.

“This is a testament to the dedication and community spirit to be found in our village.

“Congratulations and thanks go to everyone who has done their bit to help keep Greatham such a lovely place to live and achieve this wonderful recognition.”

It is only the second time that Greatham has won the trophy, with the first being back in 1995.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The judges described Greatham as “an attractive, historic village which has been enhanced by the residents who have worked enthusiastically to improve their surroundings, embracing the ideals of Northumbria in Bloom.

“The whole village is clean and well cared for. Many residents create floral displays in pots outside their house fronts and those outside the alms house were particularly impressive, which adds to the general appearance of a village in full bloom.”

There was further success in Greatham for the residents of Shannon Court who won a gold medal in the Residential Communities category.

Judges were very impressed by the plants, flowers and perfectly trimmed lawn.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The high point was Mrs Allan’s corner which was “a delightful sanctuary of greenery, flowers and scents”.

And a Silver Gilt was also awarded to The Hospital of God in the category for Care/Residential Homes, Hospices and Day Centres.

“The courtyard with its covered walkways and a pond is particularly welcoming,” said the judges.

They were also pleased to see many residents be responsible for tubs and borders outside their homes.

Northumbria in Bloom forms part of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom.