USK in Bloom capped another golden summer when the residents and businesses of Usk gathered at the Glen Yr Afon Hotel for the 35th annual awards ceremony.

Mayor of Usk Councillor Tim Keenan was joined by AM Nick Ramsay and vice chair of Wales in Bloom John Woods to present the gold, silver and bronze awards after judging took place in late July. The independent judges were Liz Mackenzie, Frances Hope, Tom and Judy Challoner. 

Sue Harrison from Bee Friendly Monmouthshire gave a highly informative presentation on the issues and successes of pollinator plants, planting ideas and bee populations.  

Cllr Keenan presented the gold award to Usk Church in Wales Primary School to compliment the Wales in Bloom title of best school garden in Wales scoring 93/100 points earning particular praise from Judge John Woods for knowing and pronouncing the Latin names for plants!  

The mayor also announced the awards for best commercial floral display as being the Nags Head and best residential garden by Marion Powell who earlier in the year won the Wales on Line best garden in Wales for 2016. 

Chairman Tony Kear praised all who had contributed to the Wales in Bloom effort which saw a 35th consecutive title and the highest points total for eight years. In accepting the invitation to be part of the Britain in Bloom challenge for 2017 he cautioned about the challenges of fundraising against difficult economic uncertainties and rising business rates that could see a reduction in the public floral displays in 2017. Friends of Usk in Bloom was launched to help overcome the funding shortfall which saw a promising uptake.

Speaking after the event, Nick Ramsay said, “It was a delight to attend the 35th annual Usk in Bloom awards, to celebrate pride in our community as well as recognising the best gardens and floral displays in the town.

“For me, Usk in Bloom has always been about so much more than displays of flowers – it’s about community action to keep Usk clean and tidy and encouraging everyone in the area to take pride in the town.

“It was particularly good to see so many new faces, demonstrating the success of Usk in Bloom by the number of new residents of the town who are getting involved and achieving success.

“I’m sure the organisation will continue to grow and promote good citizenship and I look forward to seeing even more competition for these sought-after prizes next summer.”